Ukraine’s Drone Defenses Hindered After Elon Musk Chose to Restrict Starshield Speed

Ukraine reports reduced speeds

Starshield, owned by SpaceX, is the military-grade version of Starlink and supports drone operations and battlefield communications. Ukrainian forces lost normal access last week, and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the change affected their response to Russia’s Shahed drones.

Zelenskyy said on Oct. 16 that Starlink had not been switched off, but its speed was lowered. He said the reduced speed prevented Ukrainian forces from intercepting some jet-powered Shaheds and called the effect painful and frustrating.

Accounts differ on responsibility

The Wall Street Journal report says some U.S. officials maintain Musk acted on his own. Another person familiar with the situation said Musk spoke with senior administration officials, including Trump, before imposing the speed cap. The reports therefore differ on whether Musk acted unilaterally or consulted the administration.

Concerns over military control

Defense reporter Tyler Rogoway said he had reservations about the Journal’s account. He pointed to Pentagon and SpaceX terms of service that, in his view, may prevent Musk from unilaterally cutting off a service the military uses. Rogoway warned that such an arrangement would leave the Department of War without control over a critical communications network it funds, potentially undermining future investment in Starshield.

Possible congressional scrutiny

Democrats have said they would investigate senior Trump officials if they gain control of the House, Senate or both in next month’s midterm elections. Politico reported that Musk may be among the people they examine.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego urged Musk on Tuesday to appear voluntarily rather than wait for a subpoena. Whether any investigation would lead to consequences remains uncertain. SpaceX did not respond to emailed questions on Tuesday.