Russia Enters Satellite Race with ’Zorkiy’ Constellation to Rival Starlink
Russia's space agency Roscosmos unveiled plans to deploy over 300 'Zorkiy' satellites by 2027, marking its entry into the low Earth orbit communications race dominated by SpaceX's Starlink and the UK's OneWeb. The constellation will support digital mapping and remote-area connectivity, with serial production commencing this year.
Dmitry Bakanov, head of Roscosmos, demonstrated the imaging satellite on state television, emphasizing its dual role in navigation for unmanned systems and telecommunications infrastructure. The 'Rassvet' project positions Russia among nations developing sovereign space-based internet networks amid growing geopolitical tensions over orbital infrastructure.