Charting a Path to Orbital Autonomy

Ukraine is taking significant strides in the private space sector as Stetman advances its plans to deploy a large-scale low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite network. Despite the recent passing of the company’s founder, Dmytro Stetsenko, the project remains on track under the guidance of newly appointed CEO Kateryna Diachenko. The initiative aims to enhance the nation's communication infrastructure and sovereignty through a dedicated satellite constellation.

Project Timeline and Technical Roadmap

The ambitious project targets an orbital altitude of roughly 550 kilometers. The company has scheduled a crucial test flight for October 2026, which will be conducted in collaboration with SpaceX engineers to ensure the viability of the core technology. Following a successful trial, the full-scale deployment of the network is slated to commence in 2027, with a projected three-year timeline for completion.

Once fully operational, the constellation will comprise 360 satellites. Stetman has secured a partnership with the Danish firm GomSpace for the manufacturing of these units. Diachenko has already held discussions with GomSpace leadership to reaffirm their ongoing collaboration and project milestones.

Strategic Partnerships and Financial Scope

Stetman has identified SpaceX as its primary launch provider. The decision is driven by the cost-efficiency and performance reliability of the American space firm. Regarding the choice of provider, the late founder once remarked: «SpaceX is the best option, as they are the cheapest and the most reliable.» Currently, formal agreements cover the initial test launch, with subsequent contracts for the full fleet pending.

The scale of the investment is significant, with total project costs estimated to exceed one billion euros. This budget is structured into several phases and covers the full spectrum of operations, including:

  • Manufacturing of the 360-satellite constellation.
  • Software development and system integration.
  • Launch services and associated logistical fees.
  • Operational overhead, including workforce salaries.

Industry estimates suggest that individual satellite manufacturing and launch costs range from $2 million to $3 million per unit. Given that a single Falcon 9 rocket can deploy multiple satellites, the total cost for the hardware and delivery is expected to consume a substantial portion of the project's billion-euro valuation.

Domestic Production and National Impact

Looking toward future expansion, Stetman intends to establish a satellite manufacturing facility within Ukraine in partnership with GomSpace. The plant is projected to open next year, contingent upon the timely arrival of investment, which is estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of euros.

Stetman’s role in Ukrainian infrastructure extends beyond future orbital plans. The company currently provides vital communication hardware to military units, emergency responders, and government agencies. By producing specialized equipment such as the Starmod and UASAT systems, the firm continues to play a critical role in maintaining stable communication channels during the ongoing conflict.