The strategic significance of Starlink in the Russia–Ukraine war: Lessons for Asean — Phar Kim Beng and Vic Li Yu Wai

The Russia–Ukraine war has underscored the strategic significance of Starlink, the satellite internet constellation operated by SpaceX. As a commercially owned communications network, Starlink has become deeply embedded in the operational requirements of a sovereign state fighting for its survival. This development carries profound implications for Asean, suggesting that the future of national security will depend not only on conventional military capabilities but also on who owns, operates, and ultimately controls the digital infrastructure upon which those capabilities increasingly rely.

Ukraine's experience during the invasion provides an important case study, showcasing how Starlink helped preserve critical communication channels between the country's political leadership, armed forces, and civilian population, even when terrestrial infrastructure was damaged or disrupted. The dual-use character of emerging technologies, with civilian applications such as internet access to rural schools also supporting military logistics, is transforming the strategic landscape, highlighting the growing influence of private technology companies in matters traditionally reserved for sovereign governments.

Brief written by urgent.news from Malay Mail's own syndicated text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.