Russia’s Starlink rival falters as latest satellite batch stalls in low orbit, ISW says
Russia's satellite network, intended to rival SpaceX's Starlink, has encountered significant difficulties. The latest batch of 16 satellites failed to reach their intended orbit, instead stalling in low orbit. This development raises questions about the viability of Russia's satellite program and its potential impact on Ukraine, where Starlink has been providing crucial communication services.
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- ✓ All 16 of Russia's latest satellites for its Starlink rival failed to reach their intended orbit.
- ✓ Russia's satellites are currently orbiting between 300 and 400 kilometers above Earth, rather than the intended 870 kilometers.
- ✓ Russia's Starlink rival has encountered significant difficulties, raising questions about its viability.
What changed
The latest setback involves 16 satellites that failed to reach their planned orbit, with many currently orbiting between 300 and 400 kilometers above Earth, rather than the intended 870 kilometers.
Live updates
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Russia's Starlink rival falters as satellites stall in low orbit
Russia's satellite network, intended to rival SpaceX's Starlink, has encountered significant difficulties. The latest batch of 16 satellites failed to reach their intended orbit, instead stalling in low orbit. This development raises questions about the viability of Russia's satellite program and its potential impact on Ukraine, where Starlink has been providing crucial communication services.
Why it matters
Russia's satellite network is seen as a strategic asset, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The network, often referred to as a 'Starlink rival,' aims to provide high-speed internet access via a constellation of satellites. However, repeated failures have plagued the program, casting doubt on its ability to compete with established players like SpaceX.
What is confirmed
- All 16 of Russia's latest satellites for its Starlink rival failed to reach their intended orbit.
- Russia's satellites are currently orbiting between 300 and 400 kilometers above Earth, rather than the intended 870 kilometers.
- Russia's Starlink rival has encountered significant difficulties, raising questions about its viability.
Still unconfirmed
- Russia's Rossvest Starlink Alternative is already losing satellites to accidental reentry.
What to watch next
- Further developments on Russia's satellite program and its potential impact on Ukraine
- Russia's response to the setbacks and plans to rectify the issues
- The effectiveness of Russia's satellite network in providing communication services
confidence 85%Sources used for this update (8)
- Institute for the Study of War — Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 31, 2026
- Euronews.com — Russia's Starlink copycat has failed so far, but still threatens Ukraine
- UNITED24 Media — Russia Wanted Its Own Starlink. Now Its Satellites Are Falling Before the Network Even Takes Off
- Business Insider — All 16 of Russia's latest satellites for its Starlink rival failed to reach their intended orbit
- yahoo.com — Russia's Rossvest Starlink Alternative Is Already Losing Satellites to Accidental Reentry
- TVP World — Russia’s Starlink rival hits setback
- Euromaidan Press — Russia’s Starlink rival falters as latest satellite batch stalls in low orbit, ISW says
- www.techspot.com — Russia's Starlink rival is already struggling as satellites fail to reach their planned orbits
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