Uncertainty over who controls SpaceX’s StarShield military satellite system has received renewed attention as restrictions on the technology hamper Ukraine’s defenses.
Ukraine denounces space xAs Russia ramps up its attacks on Kiev, the company’s Starlink company has restricted its military service, known as StarShield.
Kiev officials said SpaceX imposed restrictions on Starshield without notice amid heavy Russian attacks this week, disrupting military operations and hampering efforts to protect civilians.
In response, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk appears to have shifted the blame for changes regarding the use of StarShield in Ukraine to the US government and President Donald Trump. He said the StarShield system is owned and controlled by Washington, and limits on its use are determined by the U.S. military and ultimately the president. The White House and the Pentagon did not immediately respond to CNBC’s requests for comment.
Here’s what you need to know about Starshield and how it differs from Starlink.
What is Starshield and how does it work?
Starshield is SpaceX’s satellite network built on the technology and launch capabilities of the Starlink service and designed for government and national security.
According to SpaceX, Starshield is currently focused on Earth observation, secure global communications for government users, and so-called “hosted payloads,” which host specialized equipment aboard satellites for customers.
Unlike Starlink, which serves consumers and businesses, Starshield offers enhanced security features, including high-assurance encryption capabilities designed to handle sensitive information. The company’s satellites can handle a wide variety of equipment and connect with other satellites through laser communication technology.
SpaceX said in its latest earnings report that it won more than $6 billion in multi-year U.S. government contracts for StarShield from two major Space Force contracts, primarily for constellations of communications and sensing satellites based in low Earth orbit.
Musk on Wednesday distinguished StarShield from SpaceX’s commercial Starlink service, saying Starlink is limited to civilian and defense purposes and cannot be used for offensive military operations.
What is the difference between Starshield and Starlink?
Although Starshield serves a different purpose than Starlink’s commercial internet service, which provides high-speed connectivity to the general public, the two are closely related.
Starlink is SpaceX’s integrated satellite internet service, marketed for consumer, civil and defense purposes, to provide internet access in remote areas where access has traditionally been limited.
Starshield uses strong encryption and specialized terminals for secure communications, but it relies on Starlink’s extensive satellite network for its operations.
Starlink operates in more than 160 countries, territories and other markets and offers residential plans starting at $55 per month, SpaceX said. The company says its service can achieve download speeds of over 400 megabits per second in most locations.
