GUR of the Ukrainian MoD reveals details of Russia's 'Rassvet' satellite project

The Main Directorate of Intelligence of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has released information on the structure of the Russian project to create a low-orbit satellite system for broadband data transmission, known as 'Rassvet'. According to intelligence data, this complex is being developed primarily for the needs of the Russian Armed Forces.

System architecture and project participants

According to a statement by the GUR press service, the 'Rassvet' system involves the creation of a constellation of low-orbit satellites, as well as ground control infrastructure. The complex includes gateway stations and user terminals designed for both stationary and mobile objects.

Implementing the project requires the coordination of efforts across various sectors. The cooperation involves IT companies, microelectronics manufacturers, scientific centres, structures subordinate to Roscosmos, as well as units of the Russian Ministry of Defence.

Key manufacturers and investors

The main enterprise responsible for implementing the project is Bureau 1440 LLC, which is part of the IT conglomerate IKS Holding. Companies within this holding supply components, manufacture solar panels, user equipment, printed circuit boards, and electronic modules.

Structures in the Russian aerospace sector, particularly Roscosmos, are responsible for the development and manufacture of launch vehicles, upper stages, and electric propulsion engines. They are also tasked with satellite adaptation, launch preparation, and orbital deployment.

Within Roscosmos, the 'Rassvet' project is directly managed by the corporation's head, Dmitry Bakanov. Previously, he headed the Russian joint-stock company 'Sputnikovaya sistema "Gonets"', which at the time was cooperating with the British company OneWeb within the framework of creating a joint venture to develop low-orbit satellite communication services in the Russian market.

The Russian Ministry of Defence ensures the operation of the spaceport, coordinates work, and handles the subsequent integration of the system into the military communications infrastructure. Financial support for the development and creation of 'Rassvet' was provided by VTB Bank, which acted as one of the project's investors.

Military purpose and integration plans

Intelligence emphasises that for Russia, 'Rassvet' is primarily a military communications system. In the long term, the adversary plans to use this complex extensively for the benefit of its armed forces.

Specific integration plans are already known: the satellites are to be incorporated into the space system for targeting missile weapons. It is also planned to equip the command and staff vehicles of the Iskander-M operational-tactical missile complex with appropriate user terminals. According to the GUR, signal coverage will primarily cover the territories of Ukraine and European Union countries.