A Russian electronic warfare system known as Volna-Kupol-Garant is capable of interfering with Starlink satellite communications by targeting spacecraft directly rather than disrupting signals between satellites and ground terminals.

Dmitry Kuzyakin, chief designer at Russia’s Center for Integrated Unmanned Solutions (TsKBR), explained the system’s capabilities in an interview with RIA Novosti.

According to Kuzyakin, the Russian complex monitors the movement of Starlink satellites as they pass over its operational area. It then tracks the spacecraft with a directed radio signal, preventing the satellite from receiving information transmitted by user terminals within the system’s coverage zone.

Unlike conventional methods that interfere with communications between ground equipment and orbiting satellites, Volna-Kupol-Garant acts directly on the satellite’s ability to process incoming transmissions.

Kuzyakin described the technology as a serious challenge for Starlink and said SpaceX founder Elon Musk is aware that effective Russian systems capable of disrupting the satellite network have emerged.

The Russian developer also explained that the underlying technology is not entirely new. The principles of directed electronic interference against space-based systems date back to developments from the Soviet era.

Kuzyakin additionally addressed the use of Starlink equipment inside Russia, where the satellite service is officially prohibited.

He noted that modified Starlink terminals can transmit false geographical coordinates, allowing them to bypass territorial restrictions and obtain access to satellite communications despite the ban.