Russia launches second batch of Rassvet satellites to build Starlink alternative

On 19 July 2026, Russia placed a new set of 16 Rassvet satellites into low‑Earth orbit using a Soyuz‑2.1b rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. The satellites successfully separated from the launch vehicle and were acquired by mission control, after which they will undergo a series of tests before commencing regular operations.

The launch is part of the Rassvet programme run by Moscow’s Office 1440, which aims to create a domestic LEO constellation to provide an independent alternative to global satellite‑Internet services such as SpaceX’s Starlink. The first serial batch of 16 satellites was launched in March 2026; the plan calls for over 250 units by 2027 and roughly 900 by 2035. Unlike earlier demonstrator flights, this launch was not announced in advance by the Russian Defence Ministry or Roscosmos.

The development is presented by Russian officials as a strategic step to enhance the country’s communications autonomy and resilience against potential restrictions from foreign satellite operators.