Russian Orbital Station: Design, Costs, and Timeline

The chief designer of the Russian Orbital Station, Vladimir Kozhevnikov, notes that more than 150 billion dollars have already been invested in the creation and operation of the International Space Station. He emphasizes that it is premature to specify the final costs for the Russian orbital platform since its preliminary design is still in progress and will evolve as work continues. He adds that the planned project will come with a price tag well below the total already spent on the ISS, providing a major cost advantage over the current program. Current estimates place the preliminary design involving around 30 enterprises, a number that is expected to triple as development advances through the next stages. In a public briefing, the former Roscosmos general manager stated that the Russian orbital station is slated for deployment in 2027, subject to progress across the design and construction phases. The project team stresses that initial cost ranges are fluid and will be refined with ongoing engineering studies and international coordination where applicable. Analysts point to significant lessons from the ISS program, including procurement challenges, systems integration, and long term life support planning, which will inform the Russian plan from the earliest design decisions. While specifics remain under discussion, officials underscore that the Russian station will prioritize cost efficiency, reliability, and resilience, leveraging domestic capabilities and international partnerships where feasible. The central aim is to deliver a robust orbital platform that supports scientific research, technology testing, and potential commercial applications while maintaining fiscal discipline and project governance that can adapt to evolving space policies and market conditions. The ongoing design work continues to map out station modules, power systems, communication links, and maintenance strategies, with stakeholders regularly reviewing technical milestones and risk management frameworks. The program advocates a modular approach that allows phased assembly and incremental capability upgrades, aligning with user needs and budgetary oversight. In summary, the Russian orbital station project is moving from planning toward a concrete development path, with leadership projecting a 2027 initial deployment and a target that remains financially competitive relative to the costs incurred by the ISS program. The team remains focused on delivering a capable, economical, and enduring platform for exploration and application, while adapting to the dynamic landscape of space industrial policy and international collaboration. This stance reflects a continuous effort to balance ambition with prudent budgeting and transparent governance, ensuring the project can meet scientific and strategic objectives over the coming decade. The information cited here reflects official statements and industry analyses that record the trajectory and milestones of the project to date.