The Russian Federation inherited an outdated space industry base which was also reduced in size after the collapse of the USSR. In the 1990s, the crisis persisted, resulting in a drastic reduction of the capabilities of the Russian space systems. The situation started to improve in the 21st century, but as of 2022 Russian satellite capabilities remain highly limited, specifically in relation to the needs of the nation which considers itself a world-class power. Russia's deficiencies are particularly striking in space surveillance architecture which remains vastly inferior to the main competitors like the United States and China. Moreover, western commercial companies are also way ahead of the Russian military regarding space-borne imaging systems.
KBN Analysis no. 13 (108) / 2022
17 June 2022
The Russian Federation inherited an outdated space industry base which was also reduced in size after the collapse of the USSR. In the 1990s, the crisis persisted, resulting in a drastic reduction of the capabilities of the Russian space systems. The situation started to improve in the 21st century, but as of 2022 Russian satellite capabilities remain highly limited, specifically in relation to the needs of the nation which considers itself a world-class power. Russia's deficiencies are particularly striking in space surveillance architecture which remains vastly inferior to the main competitors like the United States and China. Moreover, western commercial companies are also way ahead of the Russian military regarding space-borne imaging systems.
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