Reuters has reported that Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, ordered the shutdown of Starlink services during Ukraine’s 2022 Kherson counteroffensive. According to the report, the decision to halt the service caused front-line units to lose connectivity, which disabled drones and disrupted artillery coordination. This incident underscores the critical role of satellite internet in modern military operations and the potential consequences of its disruption.
Starlink, a satellite internet service provided by SpaceX, has been a vital tool for Ukraine since the start of the war in 2022. It has enabled communication between Ukrainian forces and their allies, as well as support for drone operations and other advanced military technologies. The supposed shutdown during the Kherson counteroffensive raises questions about the potential influence of private companies on military operations and the strategic importance of satellite communications.
While the report has not been independently verified, it highlights the growing role of technology in warfare and the potential for private companies to impact the outcome of military conflicts. The incident has sparked discussions about the need for greater transparency and accountability in the use of such technologies during hostilities.