The war between Russia and Ukraine is increasingly being fought beyond the Earth’s atmosphere, as satellite communications, intelligence systems and space-based technologies become essential to military operations. Following restrictions on Starlink services and Russia’s deployment of advanced Oreshnik ballistic missiles, Kyiv is accelerating efforts to develop independent space capabilities that could reduce its dependence on American technology and reshape the balance of the conflict.
Satellite communications become essential to modern warfare
Ukraine’s military relies heavily on satellite networks to coordinate troops, control drones, transmit intelligence and identify approaching threats.
SpaceX’s Starlink and military-focused Starshield services have provided vital communications capabilities since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
However, temporary restrictions introduced in October disrupted Ukrainian drone operations when equipment travelling faster than approximately 160 kilometres per hour lost connectivity.
The restrictions were lifted on 24 October, but the incident exposed the strategic vulnerability of relying on foreign-controlled communications infrastructure.
Russia develops its own satellite network
Moscow is pursuing an alternative satellite communications system known as Rassvet, designed to provide capabilities comparable to Starlink.
According to Ukrainian military intelligence, Russia has launched 32 satellites associated with the project during 2026.
Although the network currently provides intermittent coverage, its eventual expansion could improve Russian drone guidance, military communications and targeting capabilities.
Ukraine has also attacked Russian aerospace infrastructure, including facilities associated with satellite launch systems.
Oreshnik missiles increase pressure on Kyiv
Russia’s deployment of Oreshnik intermediate-range ballistic missiles has added another dimension to the conflict.
The missiles travel through the upper atmosphere and follow trajectories extending towards the edge of space before their warheads descend towards targets.
Their speed and complex flight characteristics create significant challenges for existing air-defence systems.
Ukrainian officials have consequently identified advanced interception technologies and space-related defence capabilities as strategic priorities.
Ukraine seeks independence in orbit
Kyiv is working with international technology partners to establish its own satellite communications infrastructure.
The recently launched Obria Nano experimental satellite, developed with Danish company GomSpace, represents an initial step towards a proposed network of approximately 245 satellites.
Ukraine is also exploring cooperation with European technology companies, including ICEYE and Nokia, to strengthen secure communications and intelligence capabilities.
However, developing a fully operational satellite network will require substantial financing, technological investment and international cooperation.
A new dimension of geopolitical competition
The conflict illustrates how space infrastructure has become inseparable from national security.
Satellites now support navigation, surveillance, communications, missile warnings and battlefield coordination, making them strategically valuable assets and potential targets.
For Europe, the implications extend beyond Ukraine. Dependence on foreign satellite networks raises questions about technological sovereignty and defence preparedness.
As Russia and Ukraine compete for advantages in orbit, the war increasingly demonstrates that future military power will depend not only on forces operating on land, at sea and in the air, but also on control of critical infrastructure in space.
NewsHub Finance | Defence & Technology | 8 November 2026
The war between Russia and Ukraine is increasingly being fought beyond the Earth's atmosphere, as satellite communications, intelligence systems and space-based technologies become essential to military operations. Following restrictions on Starlink services and Russia's deployment of advanced Oreshnik ballistic missiles, Kyiv is accelerating efforts to develop independent space capabilities that could reduce its dependence on American technology and reshape the balance of the conflict.
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