Key facts
- Russia plans to launch its own satellite broadband system next year.
- The system is described as a smaller version of Elon Musk's Starlink.
- Iks Holding is the company behind the project.
- Commercial operations are planned to begin in 2027.
- The company intends to deploy 900 low-orbit Rassvet satellites.
Alexei Shelobkov, CEO of Iks Holding, announced that Russia is planning to launch its own satellite broadband system, which is intended to be a smaller version of Elon Musk's Starlink. The company has already initiated satellite launches and aims to commence commercial operations in 2027. The project involves the deployment of 900 low-orbit Rassvet satellites over the coming years. Bureau 1440, part of Iks Holding, launched its first 16 satellites in March. SpaceX currently operates over 10,000 satellites. Ukrainian drone attacks have been linked to Starlink's connectivity, and Ukraine has stated Russia is using Starlink terminals to guide drones, though SpaceX is reportedly working to stop this. Starlink is banned in Russia.