HIMERA and GomSpace launch first test satellite for independent Ukrainian communications network
Ukrainian company HIMERA and Danish company GomSpace launched OBRIA NANO on October 1 aboard a SpaceX rocket during the Transporter-18 mission. The satellite has begun operating under Ukrainian control and is undergoing technical tests and system calibration as the first element of a planned independent Ukrainian communications network.
Key points
- OBRIA NANO was launched into Earth orbit on October 1, 2026, during SpaceX's Transporter-18 mission.
- HIMERA and GomSpace launched the satellite as the first test unit of the planned OBRIA network.
- The satellite is fully controlled by a Ukrainian operator and has begun operating.
- Testing and system calibration are proceeding according to the planned schedule.
- Test results will help determine the parameters and design of a fully operational satellite communications system.
- The next project stage is to produce satellites and ground communication terminals in Ukraine.
- The long-term network is intended to cover all of Ukraine and complement European satellite networks.
Why it matters
OBRIA NANO is the first test element of a planned independent Ukrainian satellite communications network. Its technical results will inform the design of a full operational system. The initiative aims to diversify Ukraine's communications channels, reduce reliance on foreign infrastructure and strengthen strategic security, while potentially providing nationwide coverage and complementing European satellite networks.
What happened
HIMERA and GomSpace launched OBRIA NANO on October 1, 2026, aboard a SpaceX rocket during the commercial Transporter-18 mission. The satellite is now operating under the control of a Ukrainian operator and is undergoing technical testing and system calibration according to the planned schedule. Its test results are expected to help establish the parameters for a complete operational satellite communications system. The project will next move toward localized production of satellites and ground receiving terminals in Ukraine.
How Ukrainian sources describe it
Ukrainian coverage presents OBRIA as part of Ukraine's sovereign technological capacity. Particular attention is given to Ukrainian control of the satellite, the prospect of nationwide coverage, domestic production and reduced dependence on foreign suppliers and infrastructure.
Background
OBRIA NANO is being operated by a Ukrainian company and remains in the testing and calibration phase. Separately, Ukraine's Ministry of Defence, Finnish company ICEYE and Nokia signed a memorandum expressing their intention to create their own satellite communications system.