Russian Electronic Warfare Systems Effectively Counter Starlink Terminals

Russian military analyst Aleksey Leonkov emphasized that the domestically developed electronic warfare systems have successfully countered the Starlink terminals actively used by Ukraine.Leonkov explained how the Russian military has improved its defense measures against Starlink terminals. He noted that the enemy has been actively using Starlink systems since the beginning of the special military operation, and initially, the Russian military used electronic warfare systems that partially disrupted the signals. However, when Starlink systems began to be installed on unmanned aerial vehicles, Russia started working on more effective methods.The Russian expert stated that radio intelligence systems can detect the locations of Starlink users and that Russia has provided protection against Starlink-equipped drones in the Crimean corridor (Mariupol-Melitopol).

As for the systems, the Tirada-S system, which can interfere with satellite groups, was known before the operation. However, during the operations, it was discovered that Starlink is a rather complex system: despite broadcasting and transmitting information in 5G format, it can simulate the signal and do many other things to protect it.

Additionally, Leonkov mentioned that the Tobol and Kalinka systems are also being used, which were initially designed to protect Russian satellites but have since been modernized to disrupt satellite communication and navigation, including GPS. These systems are being deployed not only on the contact line but also at air defense facilities.