The Aerospace Forces of the Russian Federation, known as VKS, conducted a recent launch from the Plesetsk cosmodrome using the Soyuz-2.1v launch vehicle. A satellite was placed into orbit as part of a mission reported by the press service of the Russian Ministry of Defense.
Officials confirmed that the launch occurred in the Arkhangelsk region on Friday, February 9, at 10:03 Moscow time. The operation marks another step in the ongoing space program managed by Russia and highlights the role of the VKS in space-based intelligence, communications, and satellite operations.
Toward the end of December 2023, the satellite involved in this program completed its orbital deployment and entered a stable operational state. The military department noted that reliable telemetric communications with the spacecraft were established and maintained from the outset, and that all systems aboard the vehicle were functioning normally, enabling continued data exchange and control by ground stations.
Earlier deployments of the Soyuz-2.1v family included missions where a military satellite was placed into orbit under the auspices of the Ministry of Defense. The device was registered for monitoring and control by the Aerospace Forces, and Roscosmos communicated that three experimental reconnaissance satellites had been launched in related efforts. These activities reflect Russia’s ongoing emphasis on expanding space-based capabilities for defense and security purposes.
Beyond individual satellite missions, there has been public discussion of plans to advance a satellite constellation intended to provide robust internet connectivity. The broader aim of such a network is to enhance communications resilience and coverage across regions where terrestrial infrastructure may be limited, supporting both civilian and defense-related applications.