Ukraine may deliberately restrict the quality of mobile internet during Russian drone attacks to prevent enemy forces from using local networks for coordination, according to Chief of the General Staff Andriy Hnatov. He explained that this is not a complete shutdown of services but a targeted limitation of 4G and 5G in specific areas.
The move comes as Russia intensifies drone strikes nearly four years into the war, deploying larger numbers of advanced drones to hit key infrastructure and strategic sites. Hnatov told Ukrainian outlet Novyny Live that reducing access to high-speed connections is a defensive measure aimed at disrupting drones that rely on internet access to transmit live video and coordinate strikes.
Local reports highlight that many Russian drones equipped with cameras require stable 4G signals to function effectively. By cutting high-speed mobile internet temporarily, Ukraine seeks to undermine the ability of these unmanned aerial vehicles to deliver real-time intelligence.
“This is not a disruption of mobile communications, but rather a restriction on the quality of communications,” Hnatov said, stressing that the strategy targets enemy technology rather than ordinary citizens.
The practice mirrors Russia’s own tactics, as Moscow has often ordered mobile internet shutdowns to obstruct Ukrainian drone operations. The tactic underscores how both sides are adapting civilian communication networks for military purposes, reflecting the evolving nature of digital warfare.
By limiting connectivity during attacks, Ukraine aims to reduce the effectiveness of Russian strikes and protect critical infrastructure. This adaptive strategy highlights the increasing role of cyber and communication technologies in modern conflict, where managing access to mobile networks can play a decisive role in defense.