Shahed-136. Photo: ukrmilitary
On the night of September 24, 2024, the Defense Forces of Ukraine destroyed the Russian Shahed-136 drone equipped with Starlink satellite communications from the SpaceX company. This marked the first time an enemy had used the Shahed from Starlink, and is believed to be unlikely to be the last. During this attack, 28 out of 32 drones were shot down, which indicates the high level of preparedness of the Ukrainian military in the fight against drones. This information was reported by the Defense-ua portal.
Technological capabilities of Starlink
A photo obtained by Defense Express shows a satellite dish with serial numbers, providing an opportunity to investigate the Starlink terminal’s supply channels. This new technology opens up wider opportunities for Russian drones, because it provides continuous communication at a distance of up to 2,000 km. It is known that previously Russian forces experimented with 4G modems and Ukrainian SIM cards, but now the situation has changed.
Transforming Shahed into a reconnaissance vehicle
Installation of Starlink on Shahed-136 allows not only to transmit intelligence information, but also to correct tasks in real time. This transforms Shahed into a reconnaissance vehicle capable of transmitting data from cameras or radio equipment monitoring Ukrainian air defense positions. There is a threat of using Shahed as a long-range barrage munition with the possibility of target correction.
Platform selection and risks
The choice of the Shahed for such missions is due to its significant range and volume, which allows the installation of additional surveillance cameras. However, despite the fact that Starlink does not officially work in Russia, they find ways to get it through third countries. The issue of Starlink procurement for Russian forces remains relevant, and the US is trying to find ways to counter it.
The numbers and QR code of the Starlink terminal are censored. Photo: Defense-Ua
Washington should speed up its actions, because Shahed with Starlink can become a threat not only to Ukraine, but also to other countries. Given Russia’s cooperation with rogue states and terrorist groups, this becomes a global problem.
