The US Defence Department will pay for the Starlink satellite broadband access on behalf of Ukraine, emphasizing the country’s dependence on this technology.
Starlink, a massive constellation of 3,500 satellites operated by SpaceX, provides broadband internet to over 50 countries. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Ukrainian government and military have heavily relied on Starlink to maintain connectivity. The satellite system’s bandwidth plays a critical role in military communications, including the use of drones for identifying Russian targets and guiding artillery strikes.
On Thursday, the Pentagon announced a new contract with SpaceX, solidifying their support for Ukraine. Numerous private companies, such as Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, and several cybersecurity firms, have also stepped forward to assist Ukraine during this challenging time.
These private sector allies have played a crucial role in Ukraine’s success, offering an advantage that Moscow cannot match. However, relying on companies in this manner raises questions about sustainability, especially if Ukraine encounters difficulties in making payments.
SpaceX, in particular, has publicly expressed concerns about the costs associated with supporting Ukraine. Although CEO Elon Musk initially announced the shipment of Starlink terminals to Ukraine after Russia’s invasion, he later expressed worries about the financial burden. Musk stated that supplying bandwidth to Ukraine cost approximately $20 million monthly and that SpaceX could not sustain this expense indefinitely. However, he later retracted those comments and pledged to continue providing the service for free.
To address the corporation’s concerns about costs, the Pentagon has stepped in as a backstop, although the specifics of the contract, such as its size and duration, have not been disclosed. Nonetheless, tensions may still persist, as Musk has previously emphasized that Starlink was intended for peaceful purposes only, not for military applications.
Despite Musk’s statements, Ukraine has relied on Starlink for military purposes, leading to tension between the company and the Ukrainian government. Gwynne Shotwell, the President of SpaceX, reiterated that Starlink was not designed for military use and suggested that the company had taken steps to prevent such usage. In response, an adviser to Ukraine’s President tweeted that individuals must choose sides between Ukraine and Russia.
Musk’s tendency to publicly express his opinions may have contributed to the tensions. Six months into Ukraine’s struggle against Russian invaders, Musk tweeted a “peace plan” mirroring Russian talking points, including suggestions that Russia should retain Crimea and that certain regions of eastern Ukraine should become part of Russia if that aligns with the will of the people. He also mentioned that Ukraine should remain neutral.
Prior to the Department of Defense’s involvement, some governments and private backers had already paid for Starlink terminals on behalf of Ukraine. In April 2022, the U.S. Agency for International Development reported purchasing 1,300 satellite dishes, with SpaceX donating an additional 3,600. The Polish government also acquired terminals for Ukraine.
The assistance provided by Starlink has been crucial for military operations, government functions, and civilian communication in Ukraine. Starlink’s resilience and ability to withstand electronic jamming attacks have proven invaluable in supporting basic battlefield communications, including the delivery of weapons and the controversial use of drones in warfare.
