Dependence on foreign satellite communication systems increases risks for radionavigation security in the Russian Arctic zone. This was stated at a meeting of the Council for the Protection of National Interests in the Arctic by Russian Presidential Aide, Chairman of the Maritime Board Nikolai Patrushev.

According to Patrushev, the government, together with the Maritime Board, is developing a comprehensive project “Development of the Arctic Zone and the Transarctic Transport Corridor”. Within its framework, the synchronization of work on the formation of communication, energy, and transport infrastructure in the Far North with issues of industrial development and socio-economic development of the Arctic should be ensured.

The issue of year-round functioning of the corridor must be considered in conjunction with navigation safety — primarily in terms of communication provision.

Patrushev noted that, according to the Ministry of Digital Development, the possibility of providing satellite communication services in the waters of the Transarctic Transport Corridor will be ensured in accordance with established requirements by the end of 2030.

Context

Several satellite projects for the Arctic are already being implemented in Russia. The “Express-RV” system of four highly elliptical satellites will provide communication throughout the country, including the Northern Sea Route. The operator of the system is the company “Gonets”. The low-orbit constellation “Rassvet” from “Buro 1440” is also being deployed — its commercial operation is planned for 2027.