Russia has stepped up its satellite surveillance of Ukraine since 2022
Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the Russian Federation has launched 150 new satellites into low Earth orbit in an effort to provide maximum coverage of Ukrainian territory using space-based reconnaissance.
According to a study by Texty.org.ua, the total number of Russian low-Earth orbit satellites currently stands at 253.
The authors of the report emphasize that due to the constant shifting of orbital trajectories, there are virtually no “blind spots” for Ukraine.
Sooner or later, every Russian satellite passes over Ukrainian positions, allowing the enemy to scan the territory dozens of times a day.
A significant portion of the Russian constellation remains hidden from external observers.
Of the total 253 satellites, the purpose of 165 remains officially unknown, indicating covert military use.
Russia often disguises its military developments as civilian or scientific missions, although in reality they have a dual purpose.
There are virtually no “blind spots” for Ukraine, as the intensity of the overflights allows the enemy to constantly update intelligence data on the movements of defense forces.
Among the identified satellites, 54 units provide stable military communications, and 12 are designed for electronic intelligence.
Another 7 satellites conduct direct optical reconnaissance, recording visual changes on the Earth’s surface.
A separate threat is posed by the presence in Russia of at least one SAR satellite equipped with synthetic aperture radar. Such a satellite is capable of “seeing” through dense clouds and imaging targets in any weather, thereby neutralizing natural camouflage.
Researchers note that Moscow also actively utilizes the resources of its geopolitical partners, particularly China.
The Chinese constellation comprises 1,094 low-Earth orbit satellites, data from which can be transmitted to Russian command.
In addition, the aggressor does not hesitate to purchase satellite imagery from Western commercial companies through front organizations.
This allows the enemy to obtain detailed, high-resolution images even in the absence of its own powerful optical systems.
As a reminder, Zelenskyy stated that Russia has lost nearly 100,000 troops in three months.
Russia also attacked Ukraine with nearly 180 drones from seven directions.
