09:42 26-01-2026

Russia Uses Geran Drones With Starlink in Kropivnitsky Strike

Zеlеnskiу / Оfficiаl / Telegram

Russian forces reportedly used Geran drones with Starlink to strike Ukrainian helicopters near Kropivnitsky, expanding UAV capabilities and tactics.

Russian forces have reportedly used Geran loitering munitions equipped with Starlink satellite communications for the first time during a strike on Ukrainian military helicopters near Kropivnitsky. The assessment was made by Sergey Beskrestnov, an adviser to Ukraine’s defense minister on technological issues, known by the call sign «Flash.»

He said the conclusion was drawn after reviewing video footage of the attack. According to Beskrestnov’s analysis, the drones initially detected the target automatically, after which an operator manually adjusted the guidance. The UAVs flew at extremely low altitude, almost skimming the ground, a tactic that helped them evade radar detection.

Beskrestnov also noted that there were no other drones in the area that could have formed a mesh radio network. Based on this, he concluded that the strike marked the first recorded use of Shahed-type drones operating via Starlink satellite communications.

Earlier, Military Watch Magazine reported that Geran kamikaze drones had undergone extensive modernization, significantly expanding their combat capabilities. Following these upgrades, the UAVs gained the ability to effectively engage fast-moving targets near the line of contact and are increasingly being used as a form of aerial support for ground forces.