Nokia and ICEYE sign letter of intent on Ukrainian defence satellite system

Nokia and ICEYE have signed a letter of intent with Ukraine's Defence Ministry on space cooperation, LIGA.net reported, citing company press releases. The agreement concerns the possible creation of a Ukrainian satellite communications system for defence purposes.

The companies said they had agreed earlier in October to jointly develop secure broadband satellite communications in low Earth orbit, with state control over satellites, ground infrastructure and terminals. LIGA.net did not specify a timetable or technical parameters for the Ukrainian system.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced expanded use of Finland's satellite capabilities on October 22 following talks with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo in Kyiv, Novynarnia reported. He said seven documents had been signed and valued the day's agreements at €300 million overall; that figure was not a price for the satellite project alone.

Finland also plans to transfer 10 locomotives to Ukrainian railway operator Ukrzaliznytsia, LIGA.net reported, citing Ukraine's government. The Finnish government said rail operator VR was withdrawing the locomotives from service before their transfer. Zelenskyy also announced energy equipment and funding to protect energy infrastructure.