Ukrainian defense tech startup Himera and Danish manufacturer GomSpace have commenced testing of the Obria Nano experimental satellite. The spacecraft was launched on October 1 via the SpaceX Transporter-18 mission and is currently operating in orbit to support the design of a future communications constellation.
The initiative aims to establish a sovereign satellite network for Ukraine, reducing reliance on external providers. Himera and GomSpace intend to develop the capability to manufacture both satellites and ground terminals domestically. The project is one of two European-backed efforts currently exploring independent communications solutions for the country.
This development follows recent connectivity disruptions to SpaceX Starlink and Starshield services, which impacted Ukrainian military operations in October. While the new project will not replace the global Starlink network, it is designed to provide dedicated communications for specific military tasks and supplement existing commercial services.
Himera, established in 2022, specializes in secure tactical radio systems for electronic warfare environments. GomSpace, based in Denmark, provides small satellite platforms and payloads. The companies have not disclosed financial details, satellite specifications, or the planned size of the final constellation.
