Ukraine learns to fight without Starlink as Musk plays politics with satellites
Ukraine has begun adapting its drones and military systems to rely less on Starlink, after disruptions highlighted how access to the satellite network can be affected by decisions made by SpaceX and Elon Musk. Starlink has supported civilian communications and military operations throughout Russia’s invasion, including drone control, so its instability raises concerns for Ukraine and its European partners.
The US, Poland and Germany have funded tens of thousands of terminals and subscriptions, while Ukraine has also had access to the military-grade Starshield service. SpaceX reportedly began throttling some military terminals on 13 October 2026 when they exceeded about 99 miles per hour (160 km/h); service has reportedly been unstable at lower speeds too. Ukrainian and Western firms had already been developing drones that reduce or remove their dependence on Starlink.
In short
- Ukraine is adapting its military technology to depend less on Starlink.
- SpaceX restrictions have disrupted service for some Ukrainian military terminals.
- Western partners have helped fund tens of thousands of terminals.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Ukraine and its partners have good reason to reduce reliance on Starlink: a privately controlled service can be disrupted or constrained, and military communications should remain dependable even when systems move quickly or political relations shift. Developing alternatives would strengthen Ukraine’s operational resilience and give European governments greater control over critical infrastructure.
The case against
Starlink has provided communications at a scale and speed that would be difficult to replace during an active war, supporting both civilian connectivity and military operations. Rapidly shifting resources to alternatives could be costly and divert effort from urgent needs; continued access to Starlink, alongside contingency systems, may offer the most practical balance while replacements mature.
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