Starshield squeeze: How US control over satellite tech may affect Ukraine-Russia war

The US has reportedly restricted Ukraine’s access to SpaceX’s Starshield satellite network, disrupting some military drone operations and exposing Kyiv’s dependence on American-controlled space technology.The move has drawn attention to Starshield, SpaceX’s national security-focused satellite system, and its role in supporting battlefield communications, drone warfare and air defence against Russian attacks.Starshield is a SpaceX programme that develops satellite systems for government and national security missions, including those of the US military.Unveiled in 2022, it builds on the technology and infrastructure developed for Starlink, SpaceX’s commercial satellite internet network, but is designed for specialised defence and intelligence requirements.SpaceX identifies three main functions for Starshield: secure communications, Earth observation and hosting specialised payloads on satellites.Its secure communications services use enhanced encryption and dedicated terminals, while relying on the wider Starlink satellite constellation as their backbone. The US Department of Defense is its largest customer.The distinction is important in Ukraine, where satellite connectivity has become integral to battlefield communications and drone operations.

While Starlink is a commercial service controlled by SpaceX, Elon Musk has said Starshield is owned and controlled by the US government, with restrictions on its use determined by the US military and ultimately the president.Why Starshield is important for Ukraine?For Ukraine, satellite connectivity is more than a means of communication. It supports military coordination, drone operations and the transmission of information across a battlefield where conventional communications infrastructure can be damaged or disrupted.

Any restrictions on access can therefore affect how Ukrainian forces coordinate operations and respond to Russian attacks.The importance of the network became evident after Ukrainian officials reported that restrictions on satellite connectivity disrupted several drone missions.Reuters reported on October 14 that terminals lost connectivity when moving at speeds above 160 km/h, forcing some Ukrainian units to cancel missions.

The restrictions were particularly significant for faster drones used in strikes against Russian logistics and in air defence operations.The disruption also affected frontline communications. In a report published on October 16, Reuters described how an artillery unit in eastern Ukraine experienced interruptions in communications with headquarters and a significant drop in internet speeds after Starlink services were reduced.For Kyiv, therefore, the issue extends beyond internet access. Any sustained disruption could complicate drone operations, weaken battlefield coordination and make it harder for Ukrainian forces to respond to Russian attacks.