Russia will launch two Meridian-M military communications satellites in 2019, Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu said on Friday.

Axar.az reports citing TASS.

"Before the end of the year, two upgraded Meridian-M-series communications satellites will be launched," Shoigu said at the ministry’s board meeting.

Russia will also complete creating the orbital military communications grouping that will consist of four Blagovest satellites, the defense minister said.

"This will provide a possibility to expand the areas of satellite communication accessibility on the territory of Russia and outside it, including in the Arctic," the defense minister said.