The Ukrainian military has raised concerns over a speed limit imposed on the Starlink communication network used in operations, arguing it could disrupt drone missions. Ukraine has since announced that efforts to restore speed are underway.
According to NBC News on October 14, Serhiy Beryskrestnov, an advisor on defense technology to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, explained that SpaceX had implemented a restriction on its military Starlink service, Starshield, when operating at speeds exceeding 160 km/h. Beryskrestnov stated via Telegram, "Our military was not given prior warning about this limitation, which has led to some operational failures," adding, "This (speed limit) measure is certainly not a coincidence and is related to the current political situation."
The Ukrainian military believes the Starlink speed limit significantly hampers their war efforts. Reports indicate that a unit engaged in combat in southeastern Zaporizhzhia had to cancel some operations. The 7th Rapid Response Brigade of Ukraine noted that the speed limit directly affects drone operations, stating, "Drones continued to fly, but operations became more challenging due to the speed restriction."
Ukraine and the United States have been at odds over attacks on Russian energy facilities. The U.S. has urged Ukraine not to target Russian oil facilities, considering the impact on international oil prices and domestic energy costs. Recently, President Donald Trump declared an 'energy truce,' calling for both Ukraine and Russia to cease attacks on each other's energy infrastructure.
NBC News reported that the Ukrainian government and its supporters are concerned that pressure from President Trump to halt attacks on the Russian energy sector could lead to a reduction in support on the battlefield, as the U.S. may push for concessions at the negotiating table.
Regarding the speed limit, the Ukrainian government has not received a response from SpaceX, and military officials have stated that lowering drone speeds could impair performance, according to NBC. Deputy Ambassador to the U.S. Dmytro Senik described Starshield technology as "helpful in saving civilian lives in Ukraine and preventing further destruction caused by Russia."
Elon Musk's Starlink began providing services across Ukraine shortly after Russia's invasion in 2022. The U.S. State Department covers the costs for the Starshield service used by the Ukrainian military. Additionally, Ukraine has blocked Russian access to Starlink this year.
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedirov announced on social media on October 14 that SpaceX is working to restore satellite internet speeds in the country. Fedirov expressed gratitude to CEO Elon Musk, stating that SpaceX is working to raise speeds back to 160 km/h.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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