Managing the heat: How Ukrainian soldiers keep Starlink secure
High temperatures are also a significant problem for soldiers in Ukraine. The need for cooling affects not only people but also equipment, upon which the continuity of communication in the region and the success of battles depend.
Ukrainian soldiers from the "Khorne Group" unit demonstrate how they manage the heat, which even poses challenges for the Starlink system antennas. These must be cooled to avoid "shining" too much in thermal imaging since Russians search for them with their drones. Once located, the Russians target them with artillery fire or bombs from the FAB family with UMPK modules.
Both Ukrainians and Russians have used Starlink terminals as a substitute for modern encrypted real-time communication essential for efficient warfare operations. However, it should be noted that in recent weeks, the Pentagon forced SpaceX to cut off Russian access to Starlink.
Starlink as the heart of the Ukrainian armed forces
Communication on today's battlefield is even more crucial than the most advanced tanks. Throughout history, less-equipped but better-situated and commanded forces have defeated better-equipped or more numerous opponents.
In such situations, the ability to send, for instance, live drone footage to artillery system operators or to keep assault groups informed of enemy movements in real-time is invaluable. Ukrainians are also pioneers in coordinating tanks with drones and utilising naval drone swarms to hunt the Black Sea fleet.
Initially, Ukrainians faced substantial shortages in encrypted communication, which they tried to address in various ways. One method was using commercial radios, which could be eavesdropped upon. Eventually, Starlink system terminals were considered the best alternative, providing connectivity practically anywhere in the world.
There are some issues with using these terminals in the presence of Russian electronic warfare systems that interfere with, among other things, GPS signals. However, placing the antenna in a dug-out pit has mitigated this problem.
The Starlink system, with over 10,000 terminals, is crucial for Ukrainian communication and battlefield management, enabling them to inflict serious losses on the Russians while minimising their own.
