Russia to launch Starlink-style internet network – media
Russian operators are expected to begin providing high-speed ‘sky-fi’ internet for passengers of jets, trains, and cars within several years
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Trains, planes, and automobiles could soon be equipped with routers similar to the service offered by Elon Musk’s company, Izvestia has reported
Russia is planning to simplify satellite access to high-speed internet for public transport in the country, the Izvestia newspaper reported on Tuesday, citing official documents.
Access will reportedly be provided by operators of new satellite systems in non-geostationary orbit, allowing private users or a transport company to purchase a gadget that will connect them to the internet after installing it in a car, a plane, or a train carriage. The gadget would be used as a mobile router.
According to documentation obtained by the news outlet from the State Commission for Radio Frequencies, the authorities intend to allocate a number of frequency ranges to an “unspecified circle of people” for the development, production, and use of terminals of non-geostationary systems in Russia. Operation of the satellite equipment is not expected to require any permits.
“Services based on low-orbit satellite communications will be in demand both in the passenger and cargo transportation throughout Russia, including for the operation of unmanned vehicles,” Evgeny Charkin, director of information technologies at Russian Railways, told the outlet. The company is planning to begin testing the approach as soon as next year, he added.
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In May, Russian Railways signed a cooperation agreement on the application of satellite technologies with the Russian space company BURO 1440. Under the deal, the parties will develop digital services based on low-orbit satellites and create popular IT solutions for industry.
At the same time, Maksut Shadaev, the head of Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media, said Wi-Fi will be available on board Russian aircraft starting from 2028. Earlier this year, the minister announced that Russia is planning to launch 737 low-orbit satellites by 2030 to improve terrestrial internet speeds.