Ukrainian comms and Danish space firms launch test military-purpose communications satellite into orbit

The Ukrainian company Himera and Denmark's GomSpace have launched Obria Nano, the first test satellite for a future independent Ukrainian communications network, into orbit. Its operation has already begun.

Source: Himera in a comment to Ukrainska Pravda

Details: Himera stated that the satellite was launched as part of the SpaceX Transporter-18 mission on 1 October 2026. It is successfully undergoing planned tests of the Obria satellite group's capabilities.

"The technical trials should provide the practical experience needed for the project's further development into a Ukrainian national infrastructure," the company explained.

The company emphasised that reliance on foreign technologies creates strategic risks, especially in wartime. The Ukrainian developer is convinced that building domestic capabilities will help the country diversify its communication channels and enhance strategic security.

Himera stressed that Obria Nano will be controlled by a Ukrainian operator and will serve Ukraine's strategic security needs.

The company added that the initiative eventually plans to deploy a satellite network that will provide communication coverage across the entire territory of Ukraine, as well as complement the capabilities of European satellite networks. This will lay the groundwork for an independent Ukrainian satellite communications system operating in the interests of national strategic security.

"An important next step will be the localisation of satellite and ground terminal production in Ukraine. This will allow us to develop our own expertise in satellite communications and gradually increase Ukrainian production capacity," Himera noted.

Background:

• Ukrainian company Himera is a well-known developer of secure communication systems. The company recently reported that its Himera G1 PRO radios and Himera B1 repeater were tested by personnel from a unit of Defence Intelligence of Ukraine.
• GomSpace is an international provider of small satellite solutions, with clients in over 60 countries.

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