Ukraine begins building its own satellite communications system, with first satellite already in orbit

28.10.2026, 13:00 rubryka.com

According to the company, the future satellite constellation is intended to:

Developing its own infrastructure should also help the state diversify communication channels and reduce its dependence on external communications service providers.

The first test satellite, OBRIA NANO, was launched on October 1, 2026, as part of SpaceX's Transporter-18 mission. The spacecraft is currently being tested in orbit to assess the capabilities of the future satellite constellation.

"It is successfully undergoing tests of the OBRIA satellite constellation's capabilities according to plan," HIMERA said.

The results of the technical tests are expected to provide practical experience for further work on the project and its integration into Ukraine's national infrastructure.

Under the companies' plan, OBRIA NANO will be controlled by a Ukrainian operator and will operate in the interests of the country's strategic security.

Misha Rudominskyi, HIMERA's co-founder and CEO, explained that launching the test satellite is the first step in a long-term effort to build an independent communications system.

"This is an opportunity to lay the foundation for an independent communications network for Ukraine. We are starting by testing the technology in orbit, and our long-term goal is to develop capabilities that will strengthen the country's strategic security and reduce its dependence on external communications service providers," he said, commenting on the satellite launch.

In addition to developing the satellite constellation, the Ukrainian and Danish companies plan to establish production of the necessary equipment directly in Ukraine:

"We are pleased to be working with HIMERA and to have the opportunity to accelerate this important initiative. Our shared goal is to strengthen Ukraine's independent communications capabilities and contribute to its long-term security and economic development," said Carsten Drachmann, CEO of GomSpace.

GomSpace is an international provider of small satellite solutions. Its products and services are used by clients in more than 60 countries worldwide.

What is known about the development of satellite communications in Ukraine

In 2022, the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation, following consultations with Ukraine's Ministry of Defense, decided to use the funds raised for Bayraktar drones to purchase a modern satellite from Finnish company ICEYE.

One of the two ICEYE satellites purchased for Ukraine's Defense Intelligence continues to operate beyond its planned service life, serving Ukraine's interests.

In addition, Ukrainian company Stetman plans to begin deploying its own UASAT LEO satellite constellation in 2027. The first stage involves launching 120 satellites aboard a SpaceX rocket, while the full network of 360 satellites is planned to be in place by 2030.

On October 22, 2026, following talks with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi announced an agreement with Nokia and ICEYE to expand the use of Finnish satellite technologies.

Ukraine and the Czech Republic are also jointly developing the Suziria optical reconnaissance satellite constellation. TROLL-type satellites are a key component of the constellation, with advanced Czech-Ukrainian satellites expected to join them in the future.