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Russia's Starlink Rival Faces Setbacks

Key Takeaways
  • At least three Rassvet satellites likely suffered outright failures.
  • None of the 32 launched satellites reached intended 500-mile orbit.
  • Some satellites show signs of trouble, including failed maneuvers.
  • Russia aims to deploy 924 satellites by 2035.
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Strategic Implications

The Rassvet program's setbacks may indicate significant challenges for Russia's satellite industry, which could hinder its ability to establish a reliable satellite network. This suggests that Russia's goal to replicate Starlink may be more difficult to achieve than anticipated, potentially impacting its military and civilian communications capabilities.

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What Happened

Rassvet Satellite Program Experiences Technical Difficulties

Russia’s Rassvet satellite program, intended to rival SpaceX’s Starlink, is facing technical difficulties. At least three of the first 32 launched satellites have likely failed, and none have reached their intended orbit of 500 miles. The program aims to deploy 924 satellites by 2035, but the current setbacks may hinder Russia’s ability to establish a reliable satellite network. The Rassvet program’s progress was reported by Ars Technica.

Source | Originally Published: September 2, 2026

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JUMPSEAT
AEROSPACE NEWS
JUMPSEAT
AEROSPACE NEWS

Russia's Starlink Rival Faces Setbacks

Sponsored by: Jumpseat Solutions
Key Takeaways
  • At least three Rassvet satellites likely suffered outright failures.
  • None of the 32 launched satellites reached intended 500-mile orbit.
  • Some satellites show signs of trouble, including failed maneuvers.
  • Russia aims to deploy 924 satellites by 2035.
Sign in to view key takeaways Get full access to in-depth analysis and key takeaways.
Sign In
Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Key Takeaways.
Upgrade
Strategic Implications

The Rassvet program's setbacks may indicate significant challenges for Russia's satellite industry, which could hinder its ability to establish a reliable satellite network. This suggests that Russia's goal to replicate Starlink may be more difficult to achieve than anticipated, potentially impacting its military and civilian communications capabilities.

Sign in to view strategic implications Get full access to strategic analysis and expert insights.
Sign In
Silver membership required Upgrade to Silver to access Strategic Implications.
Upgrade

What Happened

Rassvet Satellite Program Experiences Technical Difficulties

Russia’s Rassvet satellite program, intended to rival SpaceX’s Starlink, is facing technical difficulties. At least three of the first 32 launched satellites have likely failed, and none have reached their intended orbit of 500 miles. The program aims to deploy 924 satellites by 2035, but the current setbacks may hinder Russia’s ability to establish a reliable satellite network. The Rassvet program’s progress was reported by Ars Technica.

Source | Originally Published: September 2, 2026

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