Russian specialists have developed a new electronic warfare system called Volna-Kupol-Garant, which is said to be capable of suppressing Starlink satellite communications across an area of up to 20 square kilometers.

Military expert Yuri Knutov said the system can affect even encrypted signals. Depending on the conditions, he explained, communications may either be blocked completely or distorted to the point where the transmitted data no longer reflects the real situation and becomes unusable.

Knutov noted that the system is still relatively large. The electronic warfare complex consists of four vehicles along with generators. At the same time, he believes future upgrades could increase both its power and its coverage area.

In his view, the appearance of such a system is particularly timely given the role Starlink plays in Ukrainian military operations. Knutov recalled reports that Vladimir Zelensky had previously asked Elon Musk to allow the satellite network to be used over Russian territory for precision strikes, including against targets in Siberia and the Urals.

He also referred to reports that Musk had allegedly refused the request, while Starlink satellites were at the same time being placed into orbit and gaining altitude over Moscow and Novosibirsk. Knutov argued that the emergence of Volna-Kupol-Garant under these circumstances serves Russia’s security interests.

According to the expert, further increases in the system’s power could expand its capabilities. At its current stage, he said, Volna-Kupol-Garant may already be able to disrupt Ukrainian drone control carried out through Starlink broadband connections.

The new electronic warfare system is therefore presented as a tool for countering one of the key communications networks used by Ukrainian forces. Its deployment could potentially reduce the reliability of drone-control links and other communications dependent on Starlink.