Ukraine disputes Elon Musk’s claim that its military violated Starlink’s terms of service
KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian officials have disputed claims by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk that the country’s military violated Starlink’s terms of service by using the civilian satellite internet network for offensive drone strikes.
Starlink and Starshield are satellite communication systems operated by SpaceX. Starlink provides internet connectivity to remote locations, while Starshield offers encrypted communications and surveillance capabilities for military and government applications. Ukraine relies heavily on these systems to coordinate troops and operate drones during its conflict with Russia.
However, in mid-October, both systems experienced speed restrictions that disrupted drone operations and communication links. Ukrainian forces reported that Starshield connections dropped when drone terminals moved faster than 160 kmph, causing them to lose contact with their operators. The restrictions lasted for several days, affecting critical drone missions and exposing Ukraine's vulnerability to Russian attack drones.
The US government, through SpaceX, was primarily responsible for Starshield, which the Ukrainian Defense Ministry stated was restored to pre-restriction speeds of over 400 kmph by October 24.
Written by urgent.news from The Indian Express's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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- How Starlink, Starshield pause exposed Ukraine’s drone warfare vulnerability indianexpress.com
- Ukraine hits back at Musk’s claim over civilian Starlink use for offensive strikes timesofindia.indiatimes.com
- Ukraine disputes Elon Musk's claim that its military violated Starlink's terms of service pbs.org
