Major General Vadym Skibitsky of Ukrainian intelligence said Russia has begun deploying its Rassvet satellite system faster than expected. Speaking to RBC-Ukraine, the deputy head of the Main Directorate of Intelligence evaluated the Russian satellite network, which has been described as Russia's answer to Starlink.
Skibitsky stated that Russia started introducing the system more actively than planned. He noted that Rassvet currently operates only fragmentarily, functioning when a specific satellite passes directly over Ukrainian territory.
However, Skibitsky warned that the network will operate similarly to Starlink once Russia places a full constellation into orbit. He added that Ukrainian officials are already discussing methods to counter the technology.
Commercial timeline and battlefield impact
Journalists at RBC-Ukraine estimated that Rassvet could become fully operational on a commercial basis in 2027. The satellite project has drawn attention from other Ukrainian officials as well.
Serhiy "Flash" Beskrestnov, an adviser to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, previously said the Rassvet system would create difficulties for Ukraine. Beskrestnov predicted the technology will improve communication quality for the Russian Armed Forces in the combat zone.
