Strategic Shift and Leadership Continuity

Following the passing of its founder, Dmytro Stetsenko, the Ukrainian space technology firm Stetman continues to advance its ambitious goal of establishing an independent satellite communication network. The company has officially appointed Kateryna Diachenko as the new CEO to ensure the project remains on its development trajectory. Diachenko has already moved to solidify the organization's industrial foundation, notably holding discussions with Denmark’s GomSpace to confirm that their joint manufacturing agreements remain firmly in place.


The LEO Constellation Roadmap

Stetman’s project centers on a 360-satellite constellation positioned in low Earth orbit at an altitude of approximately 550 kilometers. The mission is designed to bolster Ukraine's communication resilience. The deployment schedule is structured as follows:

  • October 2026: A proof-of-concept test satellite is slated for launch to verify core technology, conducted in collaboration with SpaceX engineers.
  • 2027: The commencement of full-scale constellation deployment.
  • 2027–2030: A three-year window for the completion of the entire 360-unit network.

Regarding launch operations, the company has selected SpaceX as its primary provider. As previously noted by the late founder, «SpaceX is the best option, as they are the cheapest and the most reliable.» While an initial test flight is planned, negotiations regarding the launch logistics for the remainder of the fleet are still ongoing.


Financial and Industrial Scope

The total capital requirement for the initiative is estimated to exceed one billion euros. This comprehensive budget encompasses:

  • Satellite hardware production and software development.
  • Launch service fees and brokerage costs.
  • Operational expenses, including personnel salaries.

With per-unit manufacturing and launch costs estimated between $2 million and $3 million, the core hardware deployment represents the vast majority of the expenditure. To optimize long-term production, Stetman intends to establish a satellite assembly plant within Ukraine in collaboration with GomSpace, provided that the necessary funding is secured by the projected timeline next year.


Current Role in National Infrastructure

Beyond its future constellation, Stetman is currently an active provider of telecommunications equipment for Ukraine's state and defense sectors. The firm supplies specialized communication terminals, including the Starmod systems—customized for harsh military environments—and UASAT terminals that leverage existing satellite networks. These initiatives are part of a broader national strategy to enhance communication autonomy during the ongoing conflict.