'Ukraine finds Starlink technology in downed Russian drone': Newsweek report

Iranian-designed kamikaze drones have been used extensively in Russia's aerial assaults on Ukraine

In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian forces have reportedly found Starlink terminals installed in a downed Russian Shahed-136 drone according to Newsweek report.

This information, shared by Ukrainian media outlets, could represent a crucial advancement in the technological capabilities of the Iranian-designed kamikaze drones that have been used extensively in Russia's aerial assaults on Ukraine.

The drone in question was shot down during a wave of attacks that took place from September 25 to 26, 2024.

Ukrainian air defenses successfully intercepted 28 out of the 32 Shahed drones launched from Russia’s Kursk and Krasnodar regions during this operation.

While the Ukrainian military did not directly confirm the presence of Starlink technology, they stated that teams are actively investigating the wreckage of the intercepted drones to gather more information.

Defense Express, a military news outlet in Ukraine, published images claiming to show the Starlink terminal affixed to the drone. However, independent verification of these claims has not been accomplished, and efforts to reach both Starlink and the Russian Defense Ministry for comment have been unsuccessful.

Starlink, owned by SpaceX and billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, has become an essential tool for Ukraine's military communications, providing reliable internet access crucial for coordinating drone operations.

The technology has allowed Ukrainian forces to maintain effective communication, intelligence gathering, and real-time control over their drone fleets.

Earlier in the conflict, Ukraine's military intelligence agency had indicated that Russian forces were employing Starlink terminals in various operational capacities, specifically pointing to the 83rd Separate Air Assault Brigade, which was active in the eastern Donetsk region.

Despite the reported use of Starlink by Russian troops, Musk has firmly denied any sales of the technology to Russia. In statements made earlier this year, SpaceX emphasized that it does not engage in any business dealings with the Russian government or military.

The company reiterated that Starlink services are not operational within Russia and that any claims of unauthorized use would be thoroughly investigated. If confirmed, SpaceX would take action to deactivate any terminals being misused.

The emergence of Starlink technology in a Russian drone raises several strategic concerns. A Pentagon official noted in May that the US has been actively collaborating with Ukraine and SpaceX to thwart any illicit usage of Starlink technology by Russian military forces.

While there have been successes in counteracting some Russian attempts to exploit the system, officials acknowledged the continuous risk posed by Russia’s innovation and adaptability in warfare.

The Shahed drones, also known as Geran-2 in Russia, have been a central component of Moscow's military strategy, providing a means to strike critical infrastructure and civilian targets in Ukraine.

These drones are equipped with explosive warheads designed to detonate upon impact, earning them the nickname "kamikaze drones." Their low flying profile and distinctive buzzing sound make them difficult to detect, though they can often be intercepted once identified.

In recent months, Russia has made various upgrades to the Shahed drones, including the application of radar-absorbent materials and darker paint to enhance stealth capabilities.

The potential integration of Starlink technology would represent a further escalation in the drone’s operational effectiveness, enabling real-time video streaming and data transmission to operators.

This could facilitate more precise targeting and coordination during attacks, significantly enhancing the drones’ lethality.

As the war continues to evolve, the implications of this development could be profound.

It underscores not only the technological arms race between Ukraine and Russia but also the ways in which commercial technology can be repurposed for military use.

With both sides increasingly relying on drone warfare, advancements such as the alleged use of Starlink technology in Russian drones could redefine the dynamics of the conflict.

In summary, the reported discovery of Starlink terminals in downed Russian drones highlights the growing sophistication of drone warfare in the ongoing conflict.

While SpaceX maintains that it does not support the Russian military, the potential implications of such technology falling into enemy hands pose critical challenges for both Ukrainian and international defense efforts.

The situation remains fluid, with the potential for further developments as the conflict continues.

Previously, Iran committed to supplying Russia with surface-to-surface missiles and additional drones, a decision that angered the United States and other Western nations supporting Ukraine.

Drones play a crucial role in Iran's border surveillance, particularly in the Gulf waters near the Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global oil transport.

US and Saudi Arabia have accused Iran of orchestrating a drone and missile attack on critical Saudi oil facilities in 2019, a claim Iran denies.

Tehran asserts that its drones are among the most powerful in the region, capable of surveillance and attacks, including "kamikaze drones" that detonate upon impact.

Its long-range suicide drones are specifically designed to target Israeli cities like Tel Aviv.

This military support could significantly enhance Russia's struggling efforts in the war against Ukraine.

However, Iran’s clerical leadership is facing increasing international scrutiny over its alliance with Moscow.