Beskrestnov: 'Rassvet' network to allow Russia to control drones in real time within six months

Threat of losing control over airspace

Serhiy Beskrestnov, the Ukrainian presidential adviser on defence technologies, warned of an approaching threat in a conversation with Associated Press. According to his assessment, within the next six months, the Russian Federation may acquire the capability to control 'Shahed' attack drones in real time, using new satellite infrastructure.

Operation of the 'Rassvet' network and its current limitations

According to the expert, as of today, Russian operators periodically receive satellite coverage over Ukrainian territory. However, this signal is available only briefly — for approximately 30–40 minutes during the pass of their own spacecraft. Full and continuous coverage, which will allow maintaining a constant connection, is expected in six months.

Expansion of enemy weapons capabilities

The implementation of a stable satellite communication channel will allow the Russian side to control in real time not only the widely known 'Shaheds'. Reconnaissance drones, as well as cheap missiles, including 'Bandierol' and Dan-M models, will fall under direct control.

Impact on the electronic warfare system

Beskrestnov noted that such a change in the technological paradigm may reduce the effectiveness of the Ukrainian electronic warfare system, which is currently actively used to suppress Russian drone signals.

«Вони зможуть завдавати ударів по всій території країни в реальному часі та з високою точністю» (They will be able to strike anywhere in the country in real time and with high precision), the presidential adviser emphasised.

Serhiy Beskrestnov identified the 'Rassvet' satellite network itself as the main technological threat that Russia poses to Ukraine.