The primary Gryphon satellite fleet, consisting of compact Gryphon nanosatellites, is slated for deployment in 2025 or 2026, according to a statement from Roscosmos chief Yuri Borisov, as reported by RIA News. The plan outlines the launch of four experimental Gryphon models in the coming year to validate the concept and sizing of the constellation.
In early October, Borisov noted that Roscosmos has begun building the Gryphon Earth monitoring system, a network slated to include 136 nanosatellites. The system will rely on spacecraft built around Gryphon’s CubeSat platform, designed to deliver a scalable and cost-effective approach to near-Earth observation and data collection. This platform choice reflects a preference for modular, low-cost components that can be produced and deployed rapidly.
On July 27, Roscosmos announced a collaboration with Africa aimed at jointly advancing the Gryphon monitoring system. The agreement envisions laying the groundwork for localization of critical technologies within the African region, expanding workforce capabilities, and developing new competencies. The government agency stated that the information system concept rests on an integrated view of space operations, merging space assets with ground infrastructure and a multi-satellite information platform into a cohesive information domain.
There have been earlier, more experimental claims about propulsion concepts within Russia, including reports of vodka-powered space engines. While such notions captured public imagination, the current Gryphon program emphasizes practical, verifiable technology development and international cooperation to establish reliable space-based monitoring capabilities.
Experts note that the Gryphon initiative aligns with broader trends in small-satellite deployments for Earth observation, environmental monitoring, and rapid-response data sharing. By leveraging a standardized CubeSat base, the program aims to reduce development cycles, lower per-satellite costs, and enable faster scaling as mission requirements evolve. The planned constellation would provide persistent coverage and high revisit rates for critical regions, supporting government, scientific, and commercial interests in both Russia and partner countries.
In global terms, the Gryphon concept resembles other next-generation monitoring networks that blend on-orbit assets with robust ground control, data processing, and analytics capabilities. The emphasis on a unified information and space domain signals a shift toward more integrated, cross-domain operations where space hardware, terrestrial networks, and data platforms work as a single system. This approach aims to streamline tasking, improve data timeliness, and enhance decision-making across diverse user communities.