The Role of Space in Russia’s Operations in Ukraine

Abstract：This paper examines how Russia has employed its space and counterspace capabilities during the conflict in Ukraine. It begins with an assessment of the role of space in Russian military theory and doctrine, followed by a discussion of the role and functions of Russia’s Space Forces, how they are organized, and their inventory of “orbital groupings.” The paper then provides a detailed analysis of the military’s space-related capabilities and activities in Ukraine by functional area (reconnaissance, communications, navigation, and counterspace). It concludes with an assessment of Russia’s potential future courses of action in the space domain.