GUR: Russia uses 'Rassvet' satellite network to control drones over Ukraine

The Russian Federation has begun actively using its own satellite network, 'Rassvet', to ensure military communications over Ukrainian territory. The main goal of implementing this system, which is positioned as an analogue of Starlink, is to increase the accuracy of strike drone flights and make them less vulnerable to electronic warfare (EW) means.

Network deployment status

According to data from the Main Directorate of Intelligence (GUR) of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine, Moscow launched 32 satellites of the 'Rassvet' project into orbit this year in two batches: in March and July. Previously, last month, Russian officials had announced the launch of more than 30 such devices.

Planners in the Russian capital intend to continue launches until the end of 2026. This will allow them to expand geographic coverage and gradually form a full-fledged low-orbit communication system.

System limitations and capabilities

GUR spokesperson Andrii Yushov confirmed that the network is already being used for military purposes in Ukraine. At the same time, he noted that the current number of satellites is insufficient to ensure continuous coverage of the entire territory.

«Нинішнього угруповання недостатньо для безперервного покриття території України: зв’язок доступний із перервами, коли супутники пролітають над відповідними районами» (The current constellation is insufficient for continuous coverage of Ukrainian territory: communication is available with interruptions, when satellites fly over the respective areas), Yushov emphasised.

For comparison, the Starlink network, owned by Elon Musk's SpaceX, counts over 10,000 satellites. Its military modification, Starshield, also operates in Ukraine, but access to it is closed to Russia. The involvement of SpaceX technologies has significantly helped the Armed Forces of Ukraine in combat operations.

Impact on combat operations

According to intelligence information, the 'Rassvet' system is capable of providing two-way data exchange with drones in Ukrainian airspace. This allows reconnaissance drones to transmit information in real time, and strike UAV operators to adjust routes during flight. In particular, this enables drones to quickly react to changes in target position or bypass zones of Ukrainian air defence action.

Andrii Yushov believes that in the long term, this may increase the effectiveness of Russian strike and reconnaissance drones and complicate their interception by EW and intelligence means.

Kyiv security expert Mykola Zentsev has also noted signs of 'Rassvet's' impact on the accuracy of Russian jet drone strikes. According to his estimates, Russia has at least two periods of quality satellite communication per day, each lasting more than an hour.

Technical issues and attacks on infrastructure

It is worth noting that Ukrainian military commanders have faced temporary speed limitations in the Starshield system. This complicated the interception of Russian strike drones and led to the cancellation of some strike operations. The limitations were later lifted, although the reasons for their introduction were not disclosed.

In parallel, Russia has intensified attacks on energy infrastructure and cities in Ukraine, using a new generation of jet drones that are more difficult to intercept.