Russia Uses Starlink to Extend Drone Strikes Deep Into Ukraine

Russian forces are increasingly turning to Starlink satellite systems to boost the range of their BM-35 strike drones, hitting targets far behind Ukrainian lines.

Ukrainian Ministry of Defense advisor and drone expert Serhiy “Flash” Beskrestnov reported that a Starlink-equipped BM-35 struck Dnipro City, roughly 86 kilometers from the frontline, marking the first known use of the technology in the area.

The BM-35, more fuel-efficient than Russia’s Molniya drones, can reach distances of up to 500 kilometers, putting most of Ukraine – and parts of neighboring countries – within striking range if launched from Russian-held territory.

Analysts say the Rubikon Center for Advanced Unmanned Technologies is the main operator deploying these drones, which have already been used against cargo vessels near Odesa and air defense systems near Kharkiv.

Experts warn that Russia’s reliance on Starlink-equipped drones is designed to overcome Ukrainian electronic warfare and exploit gaps in air defenses.

The threat highlights Ukraine’s urgent need for point-defense systems to protect critical infrastructure, as electronic warfare alone is unlikely to stop these long-range strikes.