Russia developing 'Rassvet' satellite network to control drones deep inside Ukraine

Creating own satellite infrastructure

According to data from the Financial Times, Russia is actively developing a satellite communication system called "Rassvet". This project is considered a functional analogue of Starlink, whose main goal is to ensure stable control of strike unmanned aerial vehicles over long distances. The full deployment of the system to operational orbits and the start of its operation are planned for 2027.

Tactical purpose and threats

The new network is intended to provide real-time transmission of video streams and commands for UAV control. Particular attention is paid to the capability to strike moving targets at a significant distance. According to Ukrainian intelligence, the system may also transmit target coordinates to missile systems.

Oleksandr Danyliuk, former advisor on defence and intelligence matters in Ukraine, noted that the main threat lies not simply in the existence of a Starlink alternative. In his words, relatively cheap strike drones could turn into means capable of detecting, tracking and attacking moving targets deep inside Ukrainian territory.

In view of the increase in the production of Russian drones, this could significantly increase the effectiveness of strikes on Ukrainian military and civilian infrastructure.

Experts also warn of a potential threat to Europe. Such a system could allow controlling drones at any point within the satellite coverage zone.

Technical limitations and schedule delays

Despite Moscow's plans, the development of "Rassvet" faces serious obstacles. Satellite launches are lagging behind the planned schedule, and the production of components largely depends on Chinese technologies.

According to experts' estimates, the system is currently capable of providing communication for no more than three hours a day. Meanwhile, continuous operation lasts a maximum of 50 minutes.

To fully deploy the network, Russia will need at least 16–17 more satellite launches.

Pavlo Luzyn, an expert at the Centre for European Policy Analysis, considers it unlikely that Moscow will manage to carry out all necessary launches by the end of 2027.