The image shows the RD-8 UAV unveiled by Russia’s KB Valkyriya at the exhibition. Its most groundbreaking feature is the integration of the opposing side’s Starlink satellite communication system, enabling it to function as a UAV mothership capable of launching attacks deep behind Ukrainian lines. (Image credit: VD: Enemy Intelligence)
News, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

At a recent defense technology exhibition, Russian company KB Valkyriya unveiled its RD-8 UAV mothership, a cutting-edge drone platform capable of being controlled not only via traditional radio channels but also through the Starlink satellite network or mobile networks.

According to information released on the developer’s official website, the company has introduced a full range of drones—including the RD-7, RD-8, RD-10, and RD-12 models—all supporting remote operation via Starlink or mobile networks.

This technological integration could significantly simplify Russia’s use of drones in Ukraine, as Starlink coverage is available in Ukraine but not officially in Russia.

The image shows the RD-8 UAV unveiled by Russia’s KB Valkyriya at the exhibition. Its most groundbreaking feature is the integration of the opposing side’s Starlink satellite communication system, enabling it to function as a UAV mothership capable of launching attacks deep behind Ukrainian lines. (Image credit: VD: Enemy Intelligence)

The image shows the RD-8 UAV unveiled by Russia’s KB Valkyriya at the exhibition. Its most groundbreaking feature is the integration of the opposing side’s Starlink satellite communication system, enabling it to function as a UAV mothership capable of launching attacks deep behind Ukrainian lines. (Image credit: VD: Enemy Intelligence)

Multi-Role UAV Motherships

Russian manufacturers are positioning these drones as multi-purpose platforms capable of reconnaissance, acting as UAV motherships, serving as signal repeaters, and even controlling interceptor drones.

The RD-8 UAV mothership, showcased at the exhibition, is designed to support ground forces and coordinate operations within a 150 km radius. It leverages FPV (First-Person View) drone technology to clear enemy strongholds ahead of assaults.

RD-8 UAV Key Specifications

  • Wingspan: 3.8 meters

  • Propulsion: Hybrid power system with two electric motors + 5L fuel tank

  • Take-off Weight: 30 kg (recon mode) / 35 kg (mothership mode)

  • Endurance: 4.5 hours (recon mode) / 3 hours (mothership mode)

  • Max Flight Altitude: 3 km

  • Operational Range: 150 km

  • Cruise Speed: 80 km/h

  • Max Speed: 200 km/h

  • Payload: Can carry two FPV drones, each with a 3 kg warhead

  • Sensors: Equipped with daytime EO camera (30x optical zoom) and thermal IR camera (640×512 resolution)

RD-12 — The Largest Model in the Series

The RD-12 is the largest UAV in the Valkyriya series, featuring a 5-meter wingspan and a more powerful hybrid propulsion system with two electric motors and a 15L fuel tank.

RD-12 UAV Key Specifications

  • Take-off Weight: 60 kg (recon mode) / 45 kg (mothership mode)

  • Endurance: Up to 20 hours (recon mode) / 7 hours (mothership mode)

  • Flight Altitude: Up to 5 km

  • Operational Range: 800 km (recon mode) / 400 km (mothership mode)

  • Cruise Speed: 90 km/h

  • Max Speed: 200 km/h

  • Payload: Can carry two FPV drones, each with a 3 kg warhead

  • Maximum Payload Capacity: Up to 20 kg (recon configuration)

Starlink’s Role in Russian UAV Operations

Although Starlink terminals are not officially sold in Russia, Russian military units are reportedly acquiring them through smuggling channels to enable long-range drone operations.

Most terminals are being sold via Telegram groups:

  • A terminal with network access costs around USD 1,000.

  • Service providers offer step-by-step activation guides and instructions to bypass Starlink’s regional restrictions.

  • Videos shared by Russian military users demonstrate real-world performance in combat scenarios.

  • To expand their user base, some vendors even offer incentives for Russians to “lend” personal identities for activation purposes.

In most cases, Starlink terminals are purchased in Europe and then shipped via the UAE into Russia. Some Telegram channels warn users not to activate Starlink terminals within Russia, recommending registration under Ukrainian IDs to avoid service blocks.

Photos circulating on social media show Russian soldiers holding Starlink equipment. (Image source: Telegram)

Photos circulating on social media show Russian soldiers holding Starlink equipment. (Image source: Telegram)

Implications for Modern Warfare

The integration of Starlink-based satellite communications into Russian UAV systems highlights an important trend:

  • Satellite-enabled UAVs are rapidly transforming battlefield dynamics.

  • Long-range control, high-speed data links, and multi-role UAV platforms like the RD-8 and RD-12 are reshaping reconnaissance and strike strategies.

  • The ability to leverage civilian satellite infrastructure like Starlink demonstrates a growing convergence between commercial and military technologies.

Airmobi’s Alternative: Swiftlink Long-Range Video & Data Transmission Systems

While Starlink provides satellite-based connectivity, Airmobi’s Swiftlink series offers a dedicated, high-performance alternative for long-range UAV operations without depending on third-party satellite networks.

  • Ultra-Long Range: Up to 300 km line-of-sight transmission

  • High Bandwidth: Real-time HD video + telemetry data

  • Low Latency: Optimized for FPV control, autonomous flights, and BVLOS missions

  • Robust Security: Encrypted links ensure data safety even in complex environments

  • Seamless Integration: Fully compatible with UAV autopilots, GCS, and ROS-based systems

To explore Airmobi’s Swiftlink video/data transmission solutions for industrial and defense UAV applications, visit:
https://www.airmobi.com/product-category/video-data-links/

The rise of Starlink-controlled drones underscores a major shift in how unmanned systems operate on modern battlefields. However, for industries and organizations requiring secure, stable, and fully controlled communication channels, solutions like Airmobi’s Swiftlink provide a reliable alternative—empowering UAVs to achieve long-range, high-performance connectivity without dependency on third-party satellite providers.