Russia Turns to Gonets Satellite System to Keep Drones Online

A new agreement expands the use of Russia’s Gonets network to support long-range UAV communications in remote regions.

Russia is scaling up its use of the Gonets personal satellite communication system to enable stable, long-distance control of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The initiative gained momentum during the 16th International IT Forum—an event with participation from BRICS and SCO nations—where representatives from the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area signed a cooperation agreement with the system’s developers.

Gonets technology is designed to maintain persistent connectivity across vast territories, offering a reliable solution for UAV operations in hard-to-reach areas. With the new partnership, Khanty-Mansi authorities plan to expand UAV command channels throughout the region, enabling constant location tracking and real-time environmental data collection—even in remote zones.

The International IT Forum, held from June 25 to 27 in Khanty-Mansiysk, brings together Russian and international experts to discuss emerging trends and innovations in the tech industry.