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Vladimir Putin Twice Stated Russia Has a Domestic Starlink Analogue for Drone Control. The Military Disagreed
On Russia Day, June 12, Vladimir Putin held a meeting in the Kremlin with military personnel participating in the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Among other things, he touched upon the issue of a domestic analogue to the Starlink satellite internet for controlling drones. Putin stated twice that Russia already has such systems. The military disagreed with him.
TL;DR
- Vladimir Putin claimed Russia has a domestic Starlink analogue for drone control.
- A military participant questioned the possibility of producing similar heavy drones controlled via satellite, referencing Ukraine's use of Starlink.
- Putin stated that Russian systems are operational and can meet the required tasks, with a private company, 'Buro 1440,' working on the low-orbit constellation.
- Another military participant contradicted Putin, stating the enemy uses Starlink and Russia lacks such a system.
- Putin reiterated that the system exists and is functioning, with the challenge being scaling and increasing the satellite constellation.
- 'Buro 1440' launched its first satellites for the 'Rassvet' low-orbit constellation in March, considered Russia's alternative to Starlink.
- The company plans to launch 292 satellites by 2030, aiming for global coverage.
- One of the satellites launched in March was reported lost, though the company stated this will not affect the launch timeline for the 'domestic Starlink'.