MOSCOW (Interfax) -- Russia's newly created Space Force is set to be activated June 1, a source with the Russian Strategic Missile Forces (RVSN) told Interfax.

The Space Force's command structure and development strategies are being worked out now, the source said. Insiders expect the new military branch to focus on launching and operating satellites designed for communications, navigation and high-altitude Earth observation -- tasks viewed as essential for establishing a reliable space-based command-and-control channel for the Russian military.

President Vladimir Putin appointed Gen. Anatoly Perminov commander of the nascent Space Force on March 28.

Born in the Kirov region on June 16, 1945, Perminov graduated from the Perm Military Command Engineering College and later served in the RVSN. Upon graduation from the Russian General Staff's Military Academy, he was appointed head of the state scientific research test rocket range at Plesetsk, presiding over the launch of over 100 spacecraft.

In 1993, Perminov was appointed head of the main department overseeing the use of missile armaments and military hardware, and became chief of staff and first deputy commander of the RVSN in 1997.

Formed as a branch of the armed forces in 1992, Russia's Military Space Force was disbanded and merged into the RVSN in 1997. In the view of some experts, this was a mistake that prevented the Russian military from developing space-based capabilities.