Ukrainian communications developer Himera and Danish space company GomSpace have placed Obria Nano, a test satellite for a planned Ukrainian communications network, into orbit. It launched on 1 October 2026 as part of SpaceX’s Transporter-18 mission, and has begun operating and undergoing planned technical trials. The tests are intended to build practical experience and assess the capabilities of the planned Obria satellite group, which is being developed for military and national-security purposes. Himera says the satellite will be controlled by a Ukrainian operator and serve Ukraine’s strategic security needs.
The project aims to reduce Ukraine’s reliance on foreign communications technology, which Himera considers a strategic vulnerability during wartime. Its longer-term goal is a satellite network providing coverage throughout Ukraine and complementing European satellite systems, forming the basis of an independent national communications capability. Himera identifies local production as a key next step: manufacturing satellites and ground terminals in Ukraine would build domestic expertise and expand the country’s production capacity. The company is already known for secure communications equipment, including radios and repeaters tested by personnel from a Defence Intelligence of Ukraine unit; GomSpace supplies small-satellite solutions internationally.
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