A private satellite network unexpectedly shifted the dynamics of a battlefield. Over the weekend, Ukraine’s defence minister Michael Fedorov publicly thanked Elon Musk after SpaceX tightened controls over Starlink. Kyiv said the changes were already delivering “real results” against Russian drones. The move signaled how commercial technology can rapidly reshape military realities.
To understand why this matters, Starlink has been central to Ukraine’s defence since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Ukraine has received more than 50,000 Starlink terminals, which frontline units rely on for secure communications, command coordination, and piloting drones. Compared with traditional radios, the satellite network provides faster, harder-to-jam connectivity across long distances, making it a backbone of modern combat operations.
However, Ukrainian officials recently reported discovering Starlink terminals installed on Russian long-range drones, allowing Moscow to extend their range and accuracy. As a result, Ukraine formally urged SpaceX to act. Musk replied on X that SpaceX had moved to block “unauthorized” Russian use of Starlink and that the measures appeared to be working.
Following this, Kyiv said it is now working “very closely” with Musk’s team on additional safeguards. Fedorov confirmed that unverified Starlink terminals will be disabled, while a new system will soon ensure only authorized devices can operate on Ukrainian territory. His adviser, Serhii Beskrestnov, added that these measures are temporary but designed to protect Ukrainian soldiers, civilians, and critical infrastructure from enemy drone strikes.
Meanwhile, SpaceX reiterated that it does not sell or ship Starlink to Russia and does not do business with the Russian government or military. Musk has also previously dismissed reports that Starlink access in Ukraine might be cut off, saying the service “will never” be shut down there.
At the same time, Ukraine continues to depend heavily on Starlink for frontline operations, with many commanders preferring it over traditional communications because of its reliability and security.
