Elon Musk's SpaceX has reportedly implemented new restrictions on its Starlink satellite internet services in Ukraine, significantly impacting military drone operations. Ukrainian officials, cited in a recent report, indicate that these limitations have led to the disruption and cancellation of multiple crucial missions.
Starlink terminals have become indispensable to Ukraine's defense efforts since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. The satellite network provides vital communication links for military units, especially in regions where traditional telecommunications infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. It is particularly critical for guiding long-range drones used to target Russian logistics in occupied southern and eastern Ukraine.
Speed Limits Impair Drone Control
Serhiy Beskrestnov, an adviser to Ukraine's president, stated that the military received no prior warning about these changes. "Our defence forces did not receive a warning about this limitation, and this led to the disruption of several missions," Beskrestnov communicated via Telegram, as reported by Reuters.
According to Beskrestnov, SpaceX has halted the operation of its military-grade Starlink service for vehicles moving at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour (approximately 160 km/h).
The 7th Rapid Reaction Corps, operating in southeastern Ukraine, confirmed that some of its units were forced to cancel missions due to the new restrictions. "According to our observations, during flights, the connection could drop for 10–20 seconds at speeds of just 110–120 km/h. The drones kept moving, but these interruptions made them harder to control," the corps detailed in a statement.
A source from Ukraine's defense ministry further noted that the limitations have considerably complicated military logistics and certain drone activities.
Broader Context and Other Systems
This development comes amid reports that Washington has been pressuring Kyiv to cease attacks on Russian oil refineries. It's important to note that Starlink does not operate within Russia, and Ukrainian drones targeting Russian oil infrastructure utilize alternative communication systems.