Recently, there has been positive news amid the Russian-Ukrainian war: SpaceX has implemented technical restrictions to make it more difficult for Russian forces to use Starlink on guided drones that strike targets in Ukraine. The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reached out to SpaceX, and the company responded quickly. Elon Musk confirmed that taken measures are effective, with Russian sources now complaining about reduced access.
Initially, Starlink was used exclusively by Ukrainian forces and became a crucial part of military communications. However, over the past year, Russian troops started deploying Starlink terminals near the front and even installing them on drones. Media and military reports have tracked Starlink use on Russian "Molniya" and "Italmas" drones for deep strikes into Ukrainian territory, giving Russian operators the advantage in targeting moving objects and overcoming Ukrainian air defenses.
Following consultations between Ukraine's Ministry of Defense and SpaceX, Russian channels report that Starlinks now stop working at speeds above 90 km/h — an emergency, temporary measure to block their use on Russia’s combat drones that threaten Ukrainian infrastructure, civilians, and military facilities. Further restrictions are planned to prevent Russian circumvention while ensuring Ukrainian military needs are preserved.
The issue of Russian controlled drones is not entirely eliminated, as Russia also employs alternative communication systems for drone control, such as LTE and specialized links. However, efforts continue to improve defenses. Meanwhile, frontline combat intensity has decreased due to winter conditions, but renewed attacks are likely. Ongoing support and new drones for Ukraine’s army remain crucial.
Ukrainian soldiers thank volunteers and urge continued support, since each contribution strengthens the fight and brings victory closer. The latest changes to Starlink demonstrate how joint efforts by governments and international businesses can make a real impact on the course of the war.
