Ukraine Moves to Build Sovereign Satcom With Finnish ICEYE and Nokia, Seeking a Sovereign Network

Ukraine's Ministry of Defence signed a letter of intent with Finnish companies ICEYE and Nokia on October 22, 2026, to explore a sovereign satellite communications capability. The proposed approach would give the customer ownership and control of satellites, ground infrastructure and user terminals, building on the companies' earlier partnership for government broadband networks in low Earth orbit. ICEYE would contribute satellite expertise while Nokia supplies secure networking technology, with connectivity intended to support defense requirements when terrestrial networks are disrupted. The agreement establishes exploratory cooperation, with no Ukrainian procurement commitment, funding package, constellation size or deployment timetable announced.