Initial Launch of 'Rassvet' Constellation Pushed Back
The Russian Federation has announced a delay in the launch of its first batch of 16 low-orbit broadband internet satellites, part of the ambitious 'Rassvet' (meaning 'dawn') project. Originally slated for late 2025, the launch has been rescheduled to 2026. This postponement affects Russia's endeavor to establish a domestic satellite internet network intended to rival SpaceX's Starlink.
Sources within Russia's space industry, as reported by Kommersant, indicate that the delay may be linked to the satellites not yet being fully assembled. However, Bureau 1440, the private aerospace company responsible for the project, stated that work is proceeding 'in line with target timelines' and declined to disclose specific launch dates.
Strategic Importance and Project Scope
The 'Rassvet' project is a significant strategic initiative for Russia, aiming to provide global connectivity, particularly in remote regions of the country, and potentially extending access to allied nations. The system is designed to offer broadband internet access and serve as a domestic alternative to Starlink, which is not officially available within Russia.
The broader 'Rassvet' constellation aims to deploy over 300 satellites, with full operational capability anticipated by 2027. Roscosmos chief Dmitry Bakanov had previously stated in September that the deployment of the initial 300 satellites would commence by the end of 2025. Furthermore, Bakanov indicated in June 2025 that plans include launching more than 900 low-orbit satellites by 2035, with commercial operations for over 250 expected to begin in 2027.
Funding and Development
The 'Rassvet' project operates under the Data Economy National Project. The federal budget has allocated 102.8 billion rubles ($1.3 billion) for its implementation. Additionally, Bureau 1440 plans to invest an extra 329 billion rubles ($4.3 billion) of its own funds through 2030.
The development of an independent satellite internet system underscores Russia's technological ambitions and strategic necessity, especially given the critical role Starlink has played in recent global conflicts.
5 Comments
Comandante
Good to see countries developing their own infrastructure. No reliance on others.
Bella Ciao
Just more evidence of Russia's struggling space program. A year delay is significant.
Muchacho
It's understandable Russia wants its own satellite network for strategic reasons. However, these constant delays raise serious questions about their capacity to deliver on such ambitious timelines.
Coccinella
They can't even get 16 satellites ready? Starlink has thousands up already.
Africa
A year's delay is nothing for such a massive, crucial project. Long-term vision wins.