Putin says domestic satellite network has been solved, stresses Starlink challenge

2026-06-13

Comments on Russia Day

President Vladimir Putin said on the 12th that Russia's domestic low-Earth-orbit satellites used for battlefield communications are being expanded and can solve all problems. He indicated they could rival SpaceX's Starlink satellite communications network.

Racing to replace frontline communications

The remarks were made at a meeting held to mark Russia Day, a holiday commemorating the day Russia declared sovereignty, in response to questions from soldiers taking part in the invasion. Putin said Russia is dealing with frontline problems such as communications blackouts, suggesting an effort to ease frustration over the stalled battlefield situation.

As for Starlink, SpaceX in February blocked use by the Russian military at Ukraine's request. The move is believed to have hindered Russian military communications and drone attacks. Russia has been rushing to secure alternatives, and in March the space company Bureau 1440 said it had deployed 16 satellites into low-Earth orbit.

Satellite operations and drone warfare

Putin said the domestic satellite communications network 'already exists' and added that it 'may even be better in some respects' than Starlink. He acknowledged that the number of launches is limited and that the system has not yet entered full-scale operation, but stressed that 'the most important thing is that the technical problems have been solved.' He also expressed confidence, saying, 'It will soon become effective on the ground as well.'

On drone attacks on the battlefield, he said, 'I know what it is like to look up and see drones flying around like flies.' He stressed that Russia recognizes the need to respond and that both the public and private sectors are advancing development of drones equipped with artificial intelligence, among other systems.

Regarding the Russian military, he claimed it is advancing and gradually bringing territory under control, even if not as fast as desired. He said drone attacks on Russian territory 'cannot cause serious problems' and signaled a plan to intensify attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure.

Troop cap raised to 1.51 million

On the 12th, Putin signed a presidential decree increasing the military personnel cap by 7,360 to 1.51 million. The figure has been raised gradually from about 1 million before Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, reaching 1.5 million in December 2024.

At the meeting, he also said more than 700,000 people are taking part in the military operation. He added that veterans are being provided with medical care, education and jobs, and that there are opportunities for them after returning from the battlefield.

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