What is the Russia ISS separation plan?

Russia plans to detach its ISS segment and operate it as the Russian Orbital Station, adding new modules over time. The approach reuses existing hardware to cut upfront costs but raises technical and schedule risks. Investors should watch engineering milestones and timelines that affect logistics, insurance, and station service revenues.

What is the Russian Orbital Station (ROS)?

ROS is a planned outpost built by continuing operations of Russia’s current ISS segment and expanding with new modules. It aims to sustain research, power, and propulsion independently. Progress depends on safe separation, reliable legacy systems, and timely launches that increase capacity for crew, cargo, and science.

When will the ISS deorbit, and how does this plan affect it?

Target deorbit is around 2030 for the U.S.-led side, supported by a dedicated vehicle. Russia’s split adds coordination tasks but does not change the goal. Delays in separation or hardware readiness could shift dates. Investors should watch deorbit vehicle progress and station health reports for schedule clues.

What is the role of Crew Dragon reboost here?

Crew Dragon reboost demonstrations showed commercial spacecraft can help adjust station altitude, aiding operations until final disposal. This capability supports flexibility while a dedicated deorbit vehicle is prepared. It does not replace the deorbit craft but can reduce risk and maintain safe orbits during the transition period.

How should Japan-based investors position for this shift?

Favor firms with multi-customer exposure across the U.S., Europe, and Japan, plus proven flight heritage. Look for suppliers in avionics, thermal control, materials, and ground services tied to LEO transition work. Manage risk with staged entries, tracking technical milestones, insurance costs, and contract updates from station programs.

Global Market Insights

December 31: Russia to Split ISS, Recycle Modules for ROS Build

ByHuzaifa Zahoor December 31, 2025December 31, 2025

Russia ISS separation plan takes shape as Roscosmos prepares to detach its ISS segment and run it as the Russian Orbital Station (ROS) after retirement. Reports cite a 6,089 billion ruble budget, trading a clean-sheet build for lower upfront spend but higher technical risk. For investors in Japan, this move could reshape timelines for ISS deorbit around 2030 and impact U.S. commercial stations and deorbit vehicle work. We break down risks, milestones, and where Japan’s supply chain may feel it most.