Iran is currently enforcing a near-total internet blackout, now in its sixth day, effectively isolating millions of citizens from global communication networks. The shutdown was achieved through a centralized “kill switch” that controls nearly all of the country’s internet traffic, as confirmed by NetBlocks director Alp Toker. This move highlights the power governments wield over digital infrastructure when it’s funneled through a single point of control.
Despite the widespread disruption, Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service remains one of the few remaining avenues for connectivity – though illegal under Iranian law. Possession of a Starlink terminal can lead to imprisonment, ranging from six months to two years, with harsher penalties for importing multiple devices.
However, even Starlink is not immune. Iranian authorities are actively jamming satellite signals in Tehran and likely across the country. Reports from internet rights group Filter.Watch indicate that packet loss is reaching up to 40% in some areas, severely degrading service to the point where browsing and video calls are impossible.
Mobile Jamming and Russian Tactics
The interference appears to be coming from mobile jamming units, which can be redeployed to disrupt Starlink access on a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis. This approach mirrors tactics employed by Russia in Ukraine, where similar mobile systems were used to target satellite terminals on the ground. Toker suggests that Iranian authorities may have received assistance or shared intelligence with Russia regarding these techniques.
Potential Russian Technology Transfer
Evidence suggests that Iran may have acquired or reverse-engineered Russian electronic warfare capabilities. The Iranian military reportedly discussed acquiring the Krasukha-4 system in September, following the recent conflict with Israel. This Russian-made system can jam low-Earth orbit satellites within a 300-kilometer radius.
While no definitive proof exists, Iran may already possess its own version: the Cobra V8, unveiled in 2023. State media describes it as a multi-mission electronic warfare system capable of intercepting and jamming enemy radar. Reports indicate that Russia transferred advanced electronic warfare systems to Iran in 2024, capable of disrupting military services at distances up to 5,000 kilometers.
The effectiveness of Iran’s jamming efforts and potential use of Russian technology raises concerns about the vulnerability of satellite-based internet access in authoritarian regimes.
The situation demonstrates how quickly governments can exert control over communication networks and the lengths they will go to suppress dissent or maintain surveillance. The reliance on centralized infrastructure makes these shutdowns possible, while the use of jamming technology underscores the ongoing arms race between connectivity and control.
