Countries around the world are racing to create their own satellite internet networks similar to Starlink, driven by risks associated with dependence on the service controlled by Elon Musk. Starlink has provided crucial connectivity in modern warfare, but incidents like restrictions on Russian access during the Ukraine conflict have heightened concerns. Efforts include projects by the EU, China, and individual European nations to ensure sovereign control over military communications.
Starlink, operated by SpaceX, consists of nearly 10,000 satellites that deliver internet access across most of the planet through small ground dishes. The service supports over 10 million civilian customers and plays a key role in military operations, facilitating data-intensive tasks such as intelligence sharing, video feeds, and drone controls. Its signals, directed upward to space, resist jamming better than traditional radios, and affordable receivers enable use by small units and remote vehicles.
Since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, both sides have relied on Starlink. Reports indicate Russian forces used it to guide attack drones. However, in February, the company limited access to registered users, effectively blocking Russian troops and disrupting their coordination, which temporarily benefited Ukraine. Such vulnerabilities have prompted nations to seek independence from foreign-controlled systems, especially given Elon Musk's influence.
The European Union is developing Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite (IRIS²), planned with about 300 satellites and operations starting in 2030. China is advancing the Guowang constellation, aiming for 13,000 satellites but with fewer than 200 currently, alongside the early-stage Qianfan project. Russia's Sfera initiative faces delays.
Individually, Germany is discussing its own network, while the UK holds a stake in Eutelsat OneWeb and supports startup OpenCosmos, backed by the US Central Intelligence Agency. Anthony King at the University of Exeter notes it is 'striking' that a private firm wields such geopolitical power, though affluent powers like China will eventually match it.
Barry Evans at the University of Surrey highlights US government funding for Starlink, including the militarized Starshield version, but warns of risks in relying on one individual, as Musk has restricted service in various countries. The UK faces funding and launch capability challenges. Ian Muirhead, formerly in military communications, emphasizes Starlink's resilience in space warfare due to its numerous satellites, which are hard to fully neutralize.