Defense Express: Russia has for the first time equipped "Shahed" drones with Starlink - what does this mean?

Ukrainian defense forces have destroyed a Russian Shahed-136 equipped with SpaceX's Starlink satellite communication.

This case marks the first confirmed use of Starlink in Russian drones.

Photos obtained by the publication show a satellite antenna with serial numbers, which may help investigate the supply channels for the Starlink terminal.

The use of satellite communication provides the drone with feedback, real-time data transmission, and mission adjustment capabilities over long distances.

Previously, the Russians had attempted to equip Shaheds with 4G modems using Ukrainian SIM cards.

Such communication could be needed by the enemy to transmit collected information, for example, regarding the positions of Ukrainian air defense.

The publication explains that with Starlink and an installed camera, the occupiers can use the Shahed as a long-range loitering munition capable of reconnaissance and targeting even moving objects.

The choice of the Shahed platform for such purposes may be linked to its range of about 2000 km and significant internal volume within the fuselage.

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