Himera, GomSpace launch first Ukrainian test satellite for planned national communications network

Ukrainian communications company Himera and Denmark's GomSpace launched Obria Nano, the first test satellite for a future Ukrainian communications network, into orbit. Himera said the satellite is already operating and running planned tests of the Obria satellite group's capabilities.

The launch took place on 1 October 2026 as part of the SpaceX Transporter-18 mission. Himera said the trials are intended to generate practical experience for developing the project into Ukrainian national infrastructure.

Himera builds secure communication systems. Its Himera G1 PRO radios and Himera B1 repeater were tested by personnel from a unit of the Defence Intelligence of Ukraine, the company reported. GomSpace provides small satellite solutions to clients in more than 60 countries.

Himera said Obria Nano will be controlled by a Ukrainian operator and serve Ukraine's strategic security needs. The company stated that dependence on foreign technology creates strategic risks, particularly during wartime, and that building domestic capability would diversify the country's communication channels.

The initiative plans to deploy a satellite network providing communication coverage across Ukraine's entire territory and to complement European satellite networks, with the aim of establishing an independent Ukrainian satellite communications system for national strategic security. The next step, Himera said, is localizing satellite and ground terminal production in Ukraine to develop domestic expertise in satellite communications and raise Ukrainian production capacity.