Click to see full-size image. (Telegram)
Russia has began to equip its so-called “BM-35” fixed-wing suicide drones with Starlink satellite internet terminal, which significantly expands their operational range.
Ukrainian media on January 15 shared photos showing the remains of one such drone, with what appears to be a Starlink Mini terminal. It is unclear exactly where, or when the photos were taken.
Click to see full-size image. (Telegram)
The drone, commonly referred to by its Ukrainian intelligence codename “BM-35,” features an aerodynamic fuselage with a delta-shaped wing configuration, constructed from plywood and lightweight composites for stealth and maneuverability. It is propelled by a two-stroke petrol engine.
It is usually confused with the “Italmas,” a loitering munition with very similar characteristics that was developed by Russian drone manufacturer ZALA Aero Group.
Click to see full-size image. (Telegram)
The range of the BM-35, which reportedly cost around $50,000, is said to be well over 200 kilometers, with extended loitering capabilities for prolonged surveillance before striking.
The drone is typically equipped with a targeting system built around an imager with real-time video streaming via radio link, allowing remote control.
The reliance on a traditional radio data-link limits the operational range of the BM-35, and leaves it exposed to electronic warfare. With a Starlink terminal that can provide high-speed internet and a larger power pack, the range of the drone could increase significantly.
In recent weeks, Russian military’s elite Center for Advanced Unmanned Technologies “Rubicon” shared footage showing several recent attacks with BM-35 drones against Ukrainian radars, aircraft and even ships, including some at ranges exceeding 200 kilometers. The drones used in these strikes were possibly equipped with Starlink.
It’s worth noting that Russia is now working on a low Earth orbit satellite system comparable to the Starlink, developed by the United States-based SpaceX.
The private aerospace company Bureau 1440, which was founded in 2020, is reportedly planning to launch its first batch of operational satellites this year. It is still unclear, however, when the network as a whole would actually become operational.
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