Starlink in Ukraine: what would happen if Musk cut access to his network

The Importance of Starlink for the Army of Ukraine October 19, 2026 Few technological systems have acquired as much importance in the war in Ukraine as Starlink. The network is fundamental for communications, reconnaissance, and drone operations for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. But there are concerns that Elon Musk's satellite internet may suffer speed restrictions or even be disconnected. Recently, Kyiv has reported interruptions and limitations in its use again. Since the beginning of the large-scale Russian invasion in 2022, Ukraine has widely used the satellite internet of SpaceX, the American company of Musk. When infrastructures are destroyed or mobile networks stop working, soldiers can continue to exchange data and communicate via Starlink. According to the Center for Security Studies (CSS) at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH), there were about 50,000 Starlink terminals operational in Ukraine in 2025. These devices receive and transmit signals and allow communications to be maintained on the battlefield. They also serve to transmit orders between different levels of command and receive drone imagery. The importance of the system became apparent at the beginning of the war. According to a CSS analysis, the KA-SAT satellite system used by Ukraine suffered a cyberattack a few hours before the Russian invasion. In this context, Starlink quickly became an alternative communication infrastructure. Starlink and Starshield: Commercial and Military Use In the current debate, Starlink and Starshield are often confused. Starlink is SpaceX's commercial satellite internet service. In contrast, Starshield is specifically aimed at state organizations and military users. It is based on the same technological infrastructure but is designed for security and defense applications. The distinction is important because, according to recent information, restrictions would mainly affect the systems used for military purposes. Musk has explained that Starshield is under the control of the US government, while Starlink is a commercial service by SpaceX. Importance in Drone Warfare In addition to communications, Starlink is used especially in drone operations. The system provides internet connection to maritime and aerial vessels and drones. This allows for the transmission of near real-time video images and the control of drones from long distances. Ukraine uses them for both reconnaissance missions and attacks against targets located very behind the front line. According to ETH Zurich, these communication channels also serve to transmit images and GPS coordinates of Russian positions to artillery units in order to coordinate their operations. What would be the consequences of limiting the speed? According to Ukrainian media, SpaceX temporarily introduced a speed limit for Starlink terminals. The information mentioned restricted speeds of between 110 and 160 kilometers per hour. If this limitation were effectively applied, it would directly affect high-speed Ukrainian drones, some of which reach 300 kilometers per hour. If the connection is interrupted, updated images stop being transmitted and the devices can no longer be controlled in real time. In some cases, they would have to continue their missions practically blind. Therefore, limiting or disconnecting Starlink would not only hinder communications but also affect drone operations and other Ukrainian military activities. More Than Satellite Internet Starlink and its military variant Starshield are only part of Ukraine's defense. The country also receives intelligence from its Western partners on aerial attacks by Russia, missile launches, troop movements, and anti-air defense positions, as well as possible routes to avoid them. This data contributes to air defense and the planning of Ukrainian attacks. Without this information, it would be much more difficult to carry out some of the long-range drone operations against targets in Russian territory. Both resources are especially effective when combined: intelligence data allows for the identification of targets and routes, while Starlink facilitates the rapid delivery of information to the units that need to use it. That is why reports about a possible limitation on access to US intelligence data generate as much concern as the restrictions on Starlink. Although other NATO countries, such as the United Kingdom or France, can also provide information, for now they cannot completely replace the contribution of the United States. The Strategic Dependence of Modern Armies In Europe, there are alternatives to Starlink, such as Eutelsat/OneWeb. However, it has not yet been tested on a large scale whether they can equal their services in wartime conditions. The recurring concern about possible restrictions leaves something clear: satellite communications have become an essential component of Ukraine's defense. Depending on a single provider facilitates system management, but it also demonstrates to what extent the modern Armed Forces depend on private technology companies. Experts consider this reflects a fundamental change in the way of waging war. At the same time, the successful use of Starlink in Ukraine has contributed to giving the system worldwide fame. (ct/cp) Don't let the algorithm hide the news. 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