Russia has begun integrating Shahed mesh networking modems into its Molniya tactical drones in an effort to strengthen operational coordination against Ukraine.
The update was revealed by Serhii Beskrestnov, an advisor to Ukraine’s Defence Ministry, who published photographs showing Molniya platforms equipped with scaled-down modem units. He stated that the same communication technology is also being installed in Gerbera and Kub loitering munitions used by Russian forces.
By employing mesh networking, the drones can be linked into a shared digital command framework via internet-based connections, harmonizing transceiver functions and allowing seamless data exchange. The system enables coordinated operations across different drone models while reducing the risk of signal loss.
Separately, Beskrestnov reported that Shahed drones are now being utilized as airborne carriers for FPV drones. According to him, video confirmation shows Shahed systems transporting two FPV units, effectively adding another layer of threat. He emphasized that air defense operators should consider this capability during engagements. He also noted that Molniya and Gerbera drones already incorporate fixtures for FPV deployment, and referenced debris recovered in September 2025 that suggested efforts to modify Shahed platforms for FPV operations—underscoring continued evolution in Russia’s unmanned systems tactics.
