Russia has begun using its Rassvet satellite network for military communications over Ukraine, potentially allowing its drones to transmit reconnaissance data and change course during missions, according to Ukrainian military intelligence.
The constellation, however, is still too small to provide continuous coverage, the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) told Reuters.
Satellite connections are available only when spacecraft pass over the relevant areas, limiting the time Russian forces can access the network.
GUR said Russia launched 32 Rassvet satellites this year and plans to conduct additional launches before the end of 2026.
Satellite Links for Drone Ops
Rassvet is positioned as a Russian alternative to SpaceX’s Starlink network, although its constellation remains far smaller.
Bureau 1440, the company coordinating the state-backed project, aims to expand the network to more than 900 satellites by 2035.
For military drones, satellite connectivity could extend communications beyond the range of ground-based radio links.
GUR said Rassvet could allow reconnaissance aircraft to send information as it is collected and give operators the ability to redirect attack drones while they are airborne.
Such capabilities could reduce reliance on flight paths programmed before launch, allowing drones to adjust their routes in response to moving targets or air defense.
GUR spokesman Andrii Yusov said wider deployment could strengthen Russian reconnaissance and strike operations while making drones more difficult to disrupt through electronic warfare.
Ukraine’s Satellite Comms
Ukraine has sought to slow Rassvet’s development through sanctions and attacks on infrastructure linked to the program.
In October, President Volodymyr Zelensky imposed sanctions on 10 companies involved in the network, including Bureau 1440.
The effort also comes as Kyiv remains heavily reliant on satellite communications for military operations.
Temporary speed restrictions on SpaceX’s Starshield service last month disrupted drone interception efforts and forced some strike missions to be canceled.