Musk says US government sets limits on Starlink’s military use
Ukraine said new speed limits on military use of Starlink disrupted battlefield missions, prompting Elon Musk to say restrictions on the military service Starshield are set by the US government. The dispute matters because satellite connectivity helps Ukraine guide drones and defend against Russian attacks, amid heightened strains between Kyiv and Washington.
On Tuesday night, Starlink connections were limited to weapons travelling at up to 100mph (160km/h); service was partly restored by Wednesday evening. Musk said Starshield is controlled by the US government and that Starlink is intended for civilian or defensive use. The restrictions coincided with Russian strikes that killed several people and left at least 600,000 without electricity, though Ukraine’s adviser said he believed the limits were linked to the political situation.
- Ukraine said Starlink speed limits disrupted military missions.
- Musk said the US government controls Starshield restrictions.
- Service was partly restored after a 100mph limit.
New here? Start with this
Starlink is a satellite internet service run by Elon Musk’s company SpaceX. Its network can provide connections in places where ground-based internet is unavailable or damaged, including parts of Ukraine affected by Russia’s invasion.
Ukraine’s military has used Starlink connections to support communications and drone operations. Starshield is a separate service designed for government and military use, and the US government controls how it is used.
The US is a major source of support for Ukraine, while Russia’s invasion has made reliable communications important for both civilian life and military operations. Limits on satellite services can therefore affect how Ukraine communicates and carries out its defence.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The US government has a responsibility to set clear limits on military technology it controls, particularly where unrestricted use could escalate the conflict or draw the provider into combat operations. Reserving Starlink for civilian and defensive purposes may help protect civilians, manage security risks and keep the service available for essential communications.
The case against
Ukraine can reasonably argue that sudden limits on a communications system its forces rely on may disrupt missions and weaken its ability to defend people from Russian attacks. If restrictions are necessary, timely notice and coordination with Kyiv would help avoid operational harm and sustain trust, especially when the service has become important to Ukraine’s defence.
Business Celebrity Entertainment Europe Markets Science World
Read the full article at the source →
Originally published by BBC World as “Musk says any limits on Ukraine’s Starlink access down to US, not his firm”.