Russia to connect long-distance trains to satellite internet from 2027
From 2027, passengers on long-distance trains operated by the Federal Passenger Company are to get access to satellite internet. The service is intended for extended routes where mobile networks are unreliable or unavailable.
The rollout will be made possible by a domestic low-Earth-orbit satellite constellation.
The project was announced by Vladimir Pyastolov, chief executive of the Federal Passenger Company, speaking at the Pro.Dvizhenie transport forum. He said the operator has already signed an agreement with a low-orbit satellite provider, and that onboard receiving equipment for trains has been manufactured.
More than onboard Wi-Fi
Satellite internet on trains does not rely on trackside Wi-Fi hotspots. Instead, it uses low-Earth-orbit satellites that fly much closer to the planet than traditional geostationary spacecraft, providing a more stable connection.
A receiving terminal with an antenna is installed on the roof of each carriage. The antenna automatically tracks satellites as the train moves. Because of the lower orbit, signal latency is reduced compared with conventional satellite links, and the dense constellation helps maintain connectivity at high speeds and across remote stretches. For passengers, it looks like standard onboard Wi-Fi, but without dead zones between stations.
Commercial satellite network
The backbone of the future network is being built by Bureau 1440, an aerospace company developing its own low-Earth-orbit satellite constellation. Commercial operations are scheduled to begin in 2027, with around 250 satellites in orbit. The network is designed to provide broadband access capable of delivering stable internet both for passengers and for train operations.
Cooperation agreement
Earlier, the Federal Passenger Company and Bureau 1440 signed a cooperation agreement aimed at providing connectivity along entire long-distance routes. The plan goes beyond passenger internet access and includes reliable technical communications for train crews and onboard services in remote areas.
A more connected journey
Internet access on trains is set to become a visible part of travel comfort. It will make it possible to stream video, work remotely, and stay connected even in areas with weak or no conventional coverage. Passengers will have continuous internet access throughout their journey, while trains themselves become part of the country’s expanding digital infrastructure. Those who prefer a break from screens, however, can simply leave their devices switched off.
