Russia Tests Satellites to Enable Direct-to-Phone Internet Access
Test satellites are expected to launch into orbit in 2027
Gennady Erokhin, chief designer for automated systems and complexes at Roscosmos, said that Russia plans to launch its first satellites for direct-to-phone internet access between 2027 and 2029.
According to him, the industry—and Roscosmos in particular—aims to launch initial demonstration satellites in 2027, followed by the first operational spacecraft in this constellation within two years. The system is expected to allow users in Russia to access mobile internet from anywhere in the country, with connectivity available globally.
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Erokhin added that similar projects are already advancing worldwide. He cited China, which has deployed three geostationary satellites capable of supporting direct connections with mobile devices equipped with specialized chips. Apple has also introduced a medium Earth orbit system for satellite connectivity.
Earlier, Gonets Satellite System, a Roscosmos subsidiary, announced plans to build a personal satellite communications and data transmission network focused on low- and medium-speed connectivity. The system is designed to support short message transmission and provide full coverage across Russia. It is expected to involve around 180 spacecraft.
