Key facts
- Ukrainian forces destroyed multiple Russian unmanned strike boats on June 23.
- The eliminated vessels were reportedly powered by Starlink satellite internet systems.
- Russia attempted to attack Ukraine's southwestern coast with the unmanned boats.
- Starlink systems were restricted for Russian use in February 2026.
- Russian troops have been using workarounds to access Starlink in combat zones.
Ukrainian forces successfully repelled an attempted Russian attack on the country's southwestern coast on June 23, destroying several unmanned surface vessels, according to Defense Ministry Advisor Serhii "Flash" Beskrestnov. Beskrestnov stated that the eliminated boats were equipped with Starlink satellite internet systems, noting that Russia lacks other long-range control systems. Russia's use of Starlink has been complicated since February 2026, when SpaceX implemented a 'white list' to prevent unregistered terminals from operating in Ukrainian territory, disrupting battlefield communications. Despite formal bans within Russia and restrictions on the front lines, Russian troops have reportedly sought workarounds to maintain access to Starlink in combat zones, sometimes falling into traps set by Ukrainian forces. Investigations have revealed that Russia's 'shadow fleet' vessels continue to rely heavily on Starlink for communication and coordination. Furthermore, since the beginning of 2025, Russia has integrated Starlink terminals into some of its deep-strike Shahed drones, enabling extended operational connectivity.