Russia Bans Import of Foreign Satellite Communication Systems, Including Starlink

The Russian government has banned the import of foreign-made satellite communication equipment, including dual-use systems.

According to TASS, the restriction covers radio electronic devices that send or receive signals from foreign communication satellites unless they have been approved by the State Commission on Radio Frequencies for use in Russia.

This restriction also covers Starlink satellite communication terminals, which had previously been used by Russian forces as a key element of tactical and operational command.

After access to ‘gray market’ terminals was restricted, communication at the tactical level significantly deteriorated. This forced the Russian military to look for alternatives, but it has not yet been able to fully compensate for the loss of Starlink.

One option being considered is the deployment of the Rassvet satellite constellation. According to available data, an initial group of 16 satellites could provide intermittent communication coverage over Ukraine several times a day, with total connection time amounting to a few hours.

Meanwhile, Starlink traffic in Ukraine reportedly dropped by about 75% after SpaceX disabled its terminals in occupied territories.

Against this backdrop, the Russian side has attempted to gain access to legally registered (‘white’) terminals, including by involving intelligence services that recruited citizens of Ukraine and EU countries to register them and then pass them on to the military.

Despite the restrictions, Starlink continues to be used by Russian forces, particularly to control long-range drones – both aerial and maritime.

A full ban on importing such systems is expected to reduce the level of situational awareness of Russian troops and could potentially affect the intensity of drone operations.