Ukraine Allowed Access to Military Satellite Internet- Starshield

The Ukrainian Armed Forces have gained access to Starshield, a secure military version of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network, through a U.S. Department of Defense contract.

SpaceX signed the contract in August to expand Ukraine’s access to the encrypted Starshield network, which provides enhanced security features. Of the 3,000 Starlink terminals in Ukraine, 500 were previously connected to Starshield under a separate U.S. European Command agreement, while the remaining 2,500 terminals are now included in the new deal, Space Systems Command told Bloomberg.

The Pentagon declined to disclose the cost of the latest contract, but the earlier agreement for 500 terminals was valued at $40 million. Both contracts extend service through 2025.

Starshield is a satellite network owned by the U.S. government, accessible only to authorized agencies. Managed by SpaceX, the system features enhanced encryption and can incorporate additional Earth-sensing equipment.

To address cybersecurity concerns with commercial satellite systems, the U.S. Department of Defense is planning a constellation of over 100 military satellites by 2029. Starshield satellites, twice the size of civilian Starlink units, will work with the broader Starlink network to ensure global, high-speed communications coverage.