Putin orders private data centres to reserve 10% of their capacity for state use
State authorities can request reserved computing resources with 24 hours’ notice
Private operators retain ownership while the government gains access to reserved capacity
Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed privately operated data centres to make part of their computing resources available for government information systems. The measure requires affected facilities to set aside 10% of their capacity, giving authorities access when state digital services require additional computing resources. According to Russian media outlet Astra, the directive appeared on the country’s official legal information website on November 2 2026, introducing a strict implementation deadline. Moscow tightens controls
Operators have been given 10 days to meet the new requirement, although they can continue using the reserved resources during ordinary business operations. A special government subcommission will determine when the state can demand access, with facilities required to provide the requested resources within 24 hours. The arrangement does not amount to an outright transfer of ownership, since companies retain control over their facilities and continue operating their businesses. However, the government gains authority to requisition part of their available computing resources when designated Russian information services require additional infrastructure. The decree specifies that companies will receive payment for providing access, with the government body responsible for establishing a ceiling on applicable charges. Officials must also establish procedures governing allocation decisions, including the creation of the subcommission responsible for administering access requests…