Russian forces are attempting to recruit Ukrainian citizens to illegally register Starlink terminals through government service centers, offering payments of up to 10,000 hryvnias ($240) for participation in the scheme, reports Serhiy "Flash" Beskrestnov, advisor to Ukraine's Minister of Defense on technology.
The recruitment effort comes after SpaceX blocked a portion of terminals used by Russian troops following coordination with Ukrainian officials on 5 February. Satellite internet access has become critical for Russian military operations, enabling real-time drone video transmission and communication between assault groups and command centers.
"Traitors are rightly hesitant, because we will cross-check the numbers of Starlinks captured from the enemy with data from administrative service centers, and these 'lovers of easy money' will receive 15 years or life imprisonment if their Starlink causes the deaths of people," Beskrestnov said.
Russian milbloggers continue to acknowledge the impact of the terminal blocks on combat operations. On 8 February, one milblogger claimed Russian units at various sectors of the front are experiencing communication issues and need radio and satellite equipment donations. Another described the block as "extremely unfortunate," stating that while "wise" commanders had created alternative communication means understanding the risks of relying on Starlink, Russian forces still have no equivalent to fully replace the system. The milblogger claimed Russian forces are now conducting all communications "on the ground."
Ukrainian authorities can verify terminal ownership information and detect illegal registration schemes as part of their effort to prevent enemy use of the technology. After losing access to portions of Starlink, Russian capabilities for coordinating units and operating drones have been significantly limited.
The frontlines have seen a reduction in Russian assault operations following the blocking of unregistered Starlink terminals. Ukraine's Minister of Defense Mykhailo Fedorov confirmed that terminals on the "white list" continue to function while Russian terminals have been blocked.
SpaceX implemented countermeasures in its Starlink satellite communication system at Ukraine's request, with some users already experiencing temporary restrictions aimed at improving security. ISW previously assessed that Russian forces will struggle to maintain their battlefield air interdiction campaign at previously high intensity levels in the near-term unless they find workarounds to the blocks or develop new technological solutions to replace Starlink.
