Russia Introduces New Device to Disrupt Starlink Satellite Communications
Russia has launched a new electronic warfare system aimed at interrupting communications between SpaceX’s Starlink satellites and their ground terminals. This development highlights the increasing importance of satellite internet in modern military operations.
The system, named Volna Kupol Garant, is designed to send focused high-frequency radio signals toward Starlink satellites in low-Earth orbit, rather than targeting the user terminals on the ground. Reports from Russian and Ukrainian sources, as noted by TechRadar, outline its capabilities.
Officials in Russia claim that this system can briefly disrupt communications without causing physical harm to the satellites themselves.
Starlink, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, connects people to the internet through a network of thousands of low-Earth orbit satellites. It’s particularly vital in remote areas and disaster zones, and has become an essential tool for Ukraine’s military since Russia’s invasion in 2022. The service enables crucial communications for battlefield operations and the control of drones, and SpaceX has restricted access to this network for the Russian military.
Unlike traditional electronic warfare tools, Volna Kupol Garant uses a narrow, high-frequency beam directed straight at the satellites. Reports suggest this signal can overwhelm the satellites’ receivers, stopping them from picking up communications from ground terminals in the affected zones.
The system consists of six trailer-mounted units, each equipped with two steerable antennas protected by radomes. These antennas can either stay on the trailers or be set up as fixed installations on the ground, giving operators flexibility depending on the situation.
Ukrainian defense officials mention that one unit can disrupt Starlink connectivity over an area of up to 20 square kilometers (around 7.7 square miles), making it suitable for safeguarding military bases and logistic centers.
However, the size of the system could make it more vulnerable to detection. Ukrainian forces allege they have already identified and taken out several Volna Kupol Garant units after spotting their emissions, making them targets for drone strikes.
This new technology illustrates the significant role electronic warfare plays in the ongoing conflict. Both Russia and Ukraine heavily utilize drones and satellite communications, leading to a constant battle of new technologies and countermeasures on the battlefield.
Experts caution that technologies capable of interfering with commercial satellite internet services might have wider effects in future conflicts. Starlink is used in many countries, including Israel, where it is primarily marketed as a backup for emergency communication. Additionally, Israeli airline El Al has announced plans to offer Starlink-based Wi-Fi on its flights.
