Starshield.Photo: hipertextual.
SpaceX has signed a new contract with the US Department of Defence to provide Ukraine with access to a highly secure version of its Starshield satellite network. This was reported by Time Ukraine Israel, citing Bloomberg. The contract provides for the connection of 2,500 additional Starlink terminals to the encrypted Starshield channel, which will significantly improve the security of communications in wartime. These terminals are in addition to the previous batch of 500 devices that have already gained access to Starshield. A total of 3,000 terminals will be deployed in Ukraine under the two contracts.
According to Bloomberg, these contracts are aimed at ensuring reliable internet connectivity in wartime and will run until 2025. Starshield provides an enhanced level of security by protecting against hacking attempts and signal jamming.
SpaceX has long supported Ukraine through the Starlink network, but the new contract strengthens the company’s role in strengthening the country’s defence capabilities.
Musk’s role in the war and international challenges
Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, remains a controversial figure in the context of the war in Ukraine. In 2022, he claimed that Starlink was not intended for military use and expressed fears of an escalation of the conflict. Nevertheless, Starlink has become an indispensable tool for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, especially in the most difficult moments of hostilities.
Musk has also been actively involved in geopolitical discussions, particularly after the US election. Sources say that he joined a conversation between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where he was thanked for his support of Ukraine through Starlink.
Satellite technology as a defence tool
The new contract was signed as part of the US Space Force’s Distributed Low Earth Orbit programme. This programme involves the use of satellites orbiting at an altitude of 160-1900 kilometres to provide stable and secure communications.
In addition, SpaceX’s role in US military programmes continues to grow. The company is actively cooperating with the Pentagon, competing with such giants as Boeing and Lockheed Martin in the launch of military satellites.
Global context: China and other challenges
The use of Starlink in the war has attracted the attention of not only Russia but also China. The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission noted in its report that the Chinese military is analysing the effectiveness of satellite networks such as Starlink and their role in modern armed conflicts.
Starlink and the future of support for Ukraine
As of 2022, there were more than 10,000 Starlink terminals in Ukraine, and the new contract significantly increases their number. The use of SpaceX satellite systems has become a key element of Ukraine’s defence strategy, providing critical communications in the war zone.
SpaceX’s new contract with the Pentagon underscores Ukraine’s strategic importance in the global security system and proves that technology plays a crucial role in modern warfare.
