Russia seeks rapid expansion of Rassvet satellite internet network
The Russian Security Council warned that Western services like Starlink could destabilise the socio-political situation in sovereign states.
Russia's Security Council on Friday called for the quick scaling up of the Rassvet satellite internet network, according to a report by the Times of India. The council stated that the mass production of satellites and terminal equipment must be increased to boost the system.
The council warned that Western satellite services, specifically Starlink and OneWeb, pose security risks to unspecified sovereign states by potentially destabilising their socio-political environments. This warning followed a meeting of the Security Council's Scientific and Expert Council regarding information security and internet access.
Ukraine's military intelligence directorate (GUR) told Reuters that Russia is using the Rassvet system for military purposes in Ukraine. GUR spokesman Andrii Yusov said in a written statement that the network is being used to support military communications and improve the accuracy of strike drones while making them harder to jam.
The network currently provides only intermittent communication as satellites pass over specific areas. GUR reported that Russia has launched 32 Rassvet satellites into orbit this year in two batches during March and July.
Moscow intends to conduct more launches by the end of 2026. These efforts aim to increase geographical coverage and move the country toward a fully operational low-orbit satellite communications system.
