Ukrainian forces have conducted multiple long-range strikes on Russian space communications centres and the Plesetsk cosmodrome since June 2026. The attacks aim at facilities supporting military satellites and rocket launches, according to Russian and Ukrainian statements.
Strikes on Dubna and other communications centres
In late June 2026, Ukrainian drones hit a major space communications centre in Dubna near Moscow. The facility processes data from reconnaissance satellites. Damage included a 32-metre antenna and control buildings, according to Ukrainian statements.
Russian authorities reported damage to an unspecified building and the death of a six-month-old infant. Similar strikes occurred at three smaller centres in western Russia and Crimea.
Attempts against the Plesetsk cosmodrome
On 23 August 2026, Ukrainian drones reached the Plesetsk military spaceport in Arkhangelsk region. Regional authorities said most drones were intercepted, but at least two reached the vicinity of launch facilities. Roscosmos later reported a successful launch of military satellites.
Analysts note that prior attempts in 2026 targeted moments when rockets were fuelled on the launchpad. At least a dozen drones would be required to damage the launch table or assembly buildings, according to one Washington-based analyst.
Context of Russian space infrastructure
Russia’s Aerospace Forces operate satellites used for intelligence, navigation and coordination of missile and drone strikes. Many ground facilities lie in western Russia, within range of newer Ukrainian systems.
The Progress Rocket and Space Centre in Samara, which produces Soyuz rockets, was struck on 15 August 2026, causing a fire and limited damage. Existing rocket stockpiles could last approximately one year if production is disrupted, according to the same analyst.
International cooperation and isolation
Western partners suspended several joint projects after 2022. The European Space Agency ended cooperation on ExoMars, and Germany deactivated an X-ray telescope on the Spektr-RG observatory.
NASA and Roscosmos have continued limited cooperation aboard the International Space Station. Moscow has sought new partnerships with China and other non-Western countries.
Frequently asked questions
What facilities has Ukraine targeted?
Ukrainian drones have struck the Dubna space communications centre and approached the Plesetsk cosmodrome, according to reports from June and August 2026.
Has Russia confirmed damage at Plesetsk?
Russian authorities reported that most drones were shot down near Plesetsk and that a military satellite launch proceeded successfully.
Which Russian rockets are produced in Samara?
The Progress centre in Samara manufactures Soyuz rockets used for both civilian and military satellite launches.
Have Western sanctions affected Russia’s space programme?
Several joint missions with Europe were cancelled after 2022, though cooperation with NASA on the ISS continues.
Are satellites affected by the ground strikes?
No satellites have been reported lost from orbit, but communication problems have been noted by experts.
Key takeaways
Ukrainian drones struck the Dubna space centre in June 2026, damaging a large antenna.
Multiple attempts targeted the Plesetsk cosmodrome when rockets were prepared for launch.
The Samara rocket factory suffered limited damage in August 2026.
Russia maintains ISS cooperation with NASA despite other suspended projects.
Analysts assess that existing rocket stocks could sustain launches for about one year.
