Russia’s satellite network “Rassvet”, being developed as a Starlink-like system, could give Russian forces the ability to control strike drones over long distances.
This was reported by presidential adviser on defence technology development Serhiy “Flash” Beskrestnov in a Telegram post.
The emergence of the network would improve communications for Russian forces on the frontline, but the main threat to Ukraine lies elsewhere.
Beskrestnov said Ukrainian forces currently cannot use Starlink to control drones online over Russian territory because satellite communications do not work there.
“But the Russians will be able to attack our entire country using remotely controlled drones via their satellites,” the presidential adviser said.
Ukraine should focus its efforts on developing electronic warfare capabilities, he said.
“I see only one solution — put all our efforts into developing EW systems against Rassvet. While there is still time. I consider this a priority task for myself,” Beskrestnov wrote.
What is known about Russia’s Rassvet?
Earlier, media reported that Russia was approaching stable satellite coverage over Ukraine. The Rassvet satellite constellation already provides at least two “communication windows” a day over Ukrainian territory. Each window lasts around one to one and a half hours. During these periods, Russian forces could theoretically use satellite communications to control naval drones as well as heavy strike and reconnaissance UAVs.
By mid-2027, the system could potentially provide continuous satellite coverage, creating new challenges for Ukraine’s defence forces. In late July, Flash said around 40 Russian satellites were already in orbit. To begin using the Rassvet constellation for military purposes on a meaningful scale, Russia would need to launch at least several hundred satellites.