Finnish companies ICEYE and Nokia have signed a letter of intent with Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence to explore developing a sovereign low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications system, as Kyiv seeks to reduce its reliance on SpaceX’s Starlink.
The agreement follows a partnership announced by the companies to develop secure satellite broadband systems for government applications, including defense, border security, and emergency response.
Under the proposed project, participating nations would own and operate their satellites, ground infrastructure, and user terminals. The first satellites are expected to launch in 2028.
“Ukraine needs secure, sovereign and high-performance satellite communications systems that it controls,” ICEYE CEO and co-founder Rafal Modrzewski said.
“We have a proven track record of delivering sovereign missions at speed to help build that capability. ICEYE has proudly supported Ukraine since 2022, and we remain committed to continuing that support today.”
Nokia’s chief geopolitical and government relations officer and chairman of Nokia Defense, Mikko Hautala, said satellite networks could maintain connectivity when terrestrial networks are disrupted.
“Through this Letter of Intent, together with Ukraine and ICEYE, we will explore how trusted, sovereign satellite communications can strengthen Ukraine’s resilience and give it control over the connectivity it depends on,” he said.
Ukraine Seeks to Reduce Starlink Reliance
Ukraine relies on Starlink for battlefield communications, drone operations, and air defense. Its satellite links allow compatible drones to receive remote commands and transmit video and other data beyond the range of conventional direct radio links.
However, speed restrictions introduced on October 13 have disrupted connections for drones flying faster than 160 kilometers (99 miles) per hour, Ukrainian officials said, adding that the limits remained in place despite claims they had been lifted.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said the restrictions hampered efforts to counter Russian drone attacks and conduct operations along the front line.
“Modern warfare has proven that reliable communications are a matter of national security. We must all rely on capabilities that we can control,” Zelensky said, describing the agreement as an important step toward that goal.
He thanked Finland and its prime minister for their continued support, saying the partnership would also contribute to Europe’s long-term security.