Wire · technology
Russia's Answer to Starlink Is Finally in Orbit but Its First Satellites Are Already Struggling
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Fusion42 · 4 September 2026 · Fusion42 review
Russia launched 32 satellites for its Rassvet network designed to compete with Starlink, but most satellites are stuck in lower orbits or failing to reach planned altitudes, limiting the system's effectiveness. Despite early technical setbacks, Russia aims to establish a sovereign satellite internet network to support military operations and reduce reliance on foreign systems like SpaceX's Starlink.
This Wire brief sits within Fusion42's coverage of Telecom & Connectivity, and 2 sources have reported it.
◆ ◆ The Wire takeaway
Building a sovereign satellite internet network will soon open new opportunities for communication providers in Russia, though early failures warn against relying on unproven hardware. You need to watch their next launches for potential gaps your tech or services could fill in military or regional coverage.
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2 sources · 4 Sep 2026
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