Despite efforts to block access to Starlink terminals, Russian forces are reportedly still utilizing the satellite internet service on the front lines. Investigations reveal that these terminals are reaching users in Russia through various means.
According to reports, advertisements for Starlink terminals are circulating on Telegram channels, where sellers offer to sell the devices. Initially, Ukrainians register the terminals in their names and then send them to others, who subsequently transport them to Russia via third countries.
However, there are instances where these terminals may still be blocked. A Russian military source cited by the publication “Verstka” noted that only a few of the purchased terminals have remained operational.
Additionally, terminals have been discovered in Russian drones captured by Ukrainian forces. A report from the outlet “Flash” indicated that Ukrainian troops recently found a Starlink terminal in a Russian drone that had been taken from a Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicle.
“A drone equipped with Starlink was recovered by our military. Unlike other drones, it was evident that this one was functional. An inspection confirmed that the Starlink had previously been installed on our drone,” the report stated.
A military advisor emphasized that in such cases, Ukrainian defenders should submit a request to deactivate the Starlink terminal if recovery is not feasible.
It is worth noting that Russian forces began using drones equipped with Starlink terminals, prompting Ukraine to reach out to SpaceX founder Elon Musk to request restrictions on access for Russian users.
Russian forces are reportedly circumventing restrictions on Starlink terminals through various channels, including Telegram sales and captured drones. Ukrainian officials are urging the deactivation of terminals that cannot be retrieved.