Pentagon Blocks Starlink Use by Russian Forces in Ukraine, Says Report

According to Bloomberg, the Pentagon has reported blocking unauthorized use of Starlink internet terminals operated by Elon Musk's SpaceX in Ukraine by the Russian military.

Bloomberg refers to John Plumb, head of the space policy department at the United States Department of Defense, who stated that the United States has been "heavily involved in working with the government of Ukraine and SpaceX to counter Russian illicit use of Starlink terminals."

"At this time we have successfully countered Russian use, but I am certain Russia will continue to try and find ways to exploit Starlink and other commercial communications systems," said Plumb.

A Pentagon official did not detail the specific tactics, methods, and strategies to halt Russia's use of Starlink terminals. He did, however, assure that these were effective solutions developed in collaboration with Starlink and Ukraine.

In February, the Ukrainian military revealed that the Russians had started using Starlink terminals at their positions. This was later confirmed by Ukrainian military intelligence, which reported that Moscow had been purchasing terminals in Arab countries.

Following these developments, Democrats in the US House of Representatives called for an investigation into SpaceX.

In September 2023, the US Senate Armed Services Committee initiated a review of national security issues stemming from Elon Musk's decision to restrict access to his private satellite network, Starlink, in the vicinity of Crimea.