мRussia is developing its own low-Earth-orbit satellite network to rival the American Starlink system. The constellation is expected to reach approximately 300 spacecraft by 2028, with more than 30 satellites already in orbit. Russian Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadayev announced the plans at the Russia-Africa forum in Moscow.

The minister presented the project during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to an exhibition showcasing advanced domestic technologies. Shadayev showed the president one of the satellites and outlined the capabilities of the planned communications network.

According to Shadayev, Russia will provide fast, affordable satellite internet access across the globe, including in African countries. The service is intended to make high-speed connectivity available worldwide.

One key difference from Starlink concerns government oversight of internet traffic. Shadayev explained that the Russian system will comply with national regulations governing traffic monitoring and filtering. This will allow individual governments to maintain control over internet traffic within their jurisdictions, a capability he said the American satellite service does not offer.

The announcement came during the third Russia-Africa Summit and Economic and Humanitarian Forum, taking place in Moscow on October 28–29. The event also serves as a platform for presenting Russian technological developments.