MOSCOW, Nov. 25 (Xinhua) -- Russia launched a space development plan Tuesday to deploy its Glonass navigation system, update navigation satellites and develop a new space transportation system by 2012.

    According to the Interfax news agency, the Russian government said the overall operation of Glonass, a global navigation satellite system, will be the first priority of the space plan.

    Glonass, which is designed for both military and civilian use, allows users to identify their positions in real time. It is reported that the system will include 24 satellites in 2009 to provide services worldwide.

    Under the plan, Russia will deploy a new generation of navigation satellites, create conditions for users to receive signals on home-made navigation equipment and update or replace parts of navigation satellites.

    In addition, Russia will also develop a space satellite system to tackle problems such as communications, monitoring and meteorological observation in the Arctic.