The Ukrainian armed forces reported difficulties related to the fact that the Starlink system does not function in Russian territory, which limits the ability to guide long-range drones.
According to a report published by Sputnik on August 18, the Armed Forces of Ukraine are facing communication problems when directing long-range drones at targets inside Russia. This became known through Evgeny Karas, commander of the 413th regiment of Ukrainian unmanned systems forces, who commented to the publication "Le Monde."
According to Karas, because Starlink does not work in Russian territory, operators cannot maintain communication with the drone throughout the flight. Consequently, there is no possibility to control the apparatus up to targets located inside Russia.
The issue of using the Starlink network to strike targets in Russia has been raised before. According to available data, Ukraine appealed to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk to expand the capabilities of the Starlink network for strikes on targets in Russia, but no positive decision was received. It is reported that Musk commented on this situation, warning of a possible escalation of the conflict.