Ukraine is preparing to create a new type of the Armed Forces – the Space Forces. The relevant draft law has already been recommended by the relevant committee to be included in the agenda of the Verkhovna Rada. The Chairman of the Subcommittee on State Security, Defense and Defense Innovations Fedir Venislavskyi has stated this in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.

Why does Ukraine need Space Forces?

According to Venislavskyi, the need for Ukraine’s own space domain became apparent after russia used the Oreshnik missile system, which moves along a partially orbital trajectory at an altitude of more than 100 kilometers. Existing air defense capabilities cover altitudes only up to 30-40 kilometers.

In addition, Ukraine is dependent on foreign reconnaissance satellites and Starlink, which has already created problems on the battlefield.

How many people and money do you need to start?

Venislavskyi noted that at the initial stage, the command may consist of 10-15 people who will be engaged in capacity building – similar to the UK Space Forces, which started with five officers. To form a basic constellation, 8-10 satellites are needed, costing between USD 20 and USD 50 million each. Ukraine is counting on cooperation with the EU and the US.

The first practical results, according to the MP, can be expected no earlier than a year after the adoption of the law. Full-fledged Space Forces with its own constellation of satellites and independent communications can be created in 3-5 years.

According to Venislavskyi, representatives of various factions, including the opposition, are ready to support the bill. The initiative is also supported by the Minister of Defense and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

It is worth noting that earlier the Ukrainian Government declared its readiness to create Space Forces by December 31, 2025.

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