Ukraine is building 'something similar' to Starlink, Zelensky claims — let's hope it fares better than Russia's disastrous Rassvet launch
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky confirms new satellite network in development which will provide Starlink-like connectivity for military communications.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed plans to create a Ukrainian version of Starlink, a communications satellite system. The Ukrainian military requires improved connectivity for drone operations and other communications, and Zelensky stated that the project aims to assist in military defense against Russia. The project involves launching 120 satellites in 2027 using SpaceX rockets, as Ukraine lacks the capability for heavy-lift orbital launches.
Zelensky emphasized that it would be "fair" for Ukraine to use Starlink satellite internet for military strikes on Russia, citing concerns that certain technologies might be shared with Russia by China. He also stressed that providing Ukraine with Starlink access beyond its borders would be a fair move.
The Ukrainian Starlink alternative is intended to address the challenges faced by Russia's Rassvet constellation, which has yet to meet the expected coverage standards. Ukraine's Stetman company is reportedly developing the orbital communications units for this project. The President's announcement comes as 16 of the 120 planned satellites, launched in July 2026, have already failed to reach their operational altitude and are now decaying in orbit.
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