SpaceX Technology Found in Downed Russian Drone Debris: Reports

SpaceX-made technology has been discovered among the wreckage of a downed Russian Shahed-136 drone that was targeting locations in Ukraine. The drone was shot down on September 25th, following a Russian attack involving 32 drones across Ukraine. Photos of the debris from one of the drones revealed a Starlink logo and product serial number, marking the first instance of Shahed drones being equipped with Elon Musk’s technology.

Initially supplied by Iran, Russia began manufacturing the Shahed drones locally, renaming the Loitering munition craft Shahed 136 to Geran-2. These drones, also known as “kamikaze drones,” are designed to deliver explosives to specific targets. The integration of Starlink technology allows for high-volume data transmission from the drone’s cameras, enabling real-time maneuvering with connection speeds ranging from 25 to 220 Mbps.

Defense Express, a Ukrainian military news outlet, suggests that the use of Starlink could enhance the precision of Russian attacks using Shahed platforms, given the drones’ range of up to 2,000 kilometers. Despite reports of Russian forces utilizing Starlink terminals, SpaceX and Elon Musk have denied selling the technology to Russia.

While the Ukrainian military relies on Starlink for communication and drone operations, the Russian army is reportedly testing electronic weapon systems to disrupt communications. Military tech companies like Milrem Robotics have integrated Starlink satellite communications into ground-based drones, showcasing the versatility and potential of Musk’s technology in the defense sector.