The US Department of Defense has announced that it will purchase Starlink’s satellite Internet broadband services for Ukraine. Elon Musk’s company, SpaceX, activated Starlink for Ukraine shortly after the start of the war and brought thousands of antennas into the country. However, discussions about financing ensued until Musk decided in autumn 2022 to assume the costs for Starlink in Ukraine for an unlimited period.
The Pentagon confirmed that they are continuing to work with global partners to ensure Ukraine has the needed satellite and communications capabilities. The specifics of the order are not yet known, as the department cited operational security concerns and the critical nature of the systems.
Media outlets have reported that the order may involve Starlink’s satellite terminals and services used by the Ukrainian military. It is speculated that the Pentagon may use the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative to fund the order. The US has invested $36.9 billion in Ukraine’s security since the invasion began in February 2022.
After the attack, Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov appealed to Elon Musk for help. Starlink was activated for Ukraine, and thousands of antennas were brought into the country, financed in part by the US government and donations. Initially, it was mainly intended to provide Internet connectivity to people who lost it due to the attacks. It later turned out that Starlink is being used by the Ukrainian military for the elimination of tanks and for their own communications.
Elon Musk privately expressed concern that a world war was imminent, which also had consequences for Starlink in Ukraine. The unclear funding of Starlink services in Ukraine made Musk question the operation, only to claim shortly thereafter that he would bear the costs. Starlink has assured that the satellite Internet can no longer be used as a weapon or for offensive purposes, including controlling drones.
Starlink is the backbone of communications in Ukraine, especially on the front lines where almost all internet connectivity has been destroyed. Elon Musk has stated that they will not allow the conflict to escalate, as it could lead to World War III.
