Russia Is Already Using Its Own Starlink Copy for Military Comms Over Ukraine, Kyiv Says

Russia is using its own version of Starlink for military communications over Ukraine, according to Kyiv, in a development that could make Russian attack drones more accurate and more resistant to electronic interference.

Ukrainian military intelligence said Russia launched 32 satellites for its Rassvet network in March and July, with additional launches planned through the end of 2026. The service is currently intermittent, functioning only when the satellites pass over the target areas, but it is already being used for military communications.

The system is intended to make Russian attack drones more accurate and harder to jam, with potential uses including real-time intelligence transmission and in-flight adjustment of attack drone routes.

The development was expected. President Vladimir Putin hailed Elon Musk as a genius last month and acknowledged Russia is only beginning to roll out its answer to Starlink. Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadayev said Russia had launched more than 30 satellites for the system, while Musk has close to 10,000 low-orbit satellites in space.

Ukraine has relied on Starlink and its military version, Starshield, throughout the war for drone operations and battlefield communications. Kyiv complained earlier in October of speed restrictions that hampered drone interception, though the service was later said to be fully functional again. Musk accused the Ukrainian military of violating SpaceX's terms of service.

If Russia's Rassvet network matures, it would close one of Ukraine's key advantages on the battlefield — a reliable satellite link that its drones and units depend on — and give Moscow a resilient communications channel of its own.

Sources

• Reuters — Putin salutes Musk's 'genius' as Russia plays catch-up with Starlink