Starlink, a satellite communication system operated by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has been instrumental in supporting Ukrainian military operations since the conflict with Russia began. Recently, Russian aggression has threatened the stability of this critical infrastructure.
Colonel Andriy Lebedenko, Deputy Commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, confirmed this threat during a briefing in Kyiv. He emphasized that measures have been put in place to ensure the infrastructure supporting the management system is reserved and includes various communication tools. Despite these efforts, there will be an impact and consequences on the system.
Recent reports indicate that Russia deployed advanced technologies to interfere with Starlink’s operation before advancing into the Kharkiv region. Ukrainian troops observed disruptions in the satellite internet service shortly before the Russian incursion. This impacted their ability to quickly communicate and share crucial information about the advance. It is suspected that Russia used electronic warfare and sophisticated methods to disrupt the Starlink system, hindering Ukrainian military operations.
Despite these challenges, Colonel Lebedenko reassured that while there will be an impact and consequences on Starlink’s operations, it will not critically affect its management system or ground robotic complexes that are essential for military operations. The Ukrainian Defense Forces heavily rely on Starlink for communication, intelligence gathering, and drone attacks, making it a vital asset in their operations.