The UK has begun using SpaceX’s Starshield satellite network for military operations after the Ministry of Defence reportedly transitioned operational communications to the service earlier this year, Reuters reported.
Designed for government, military, and intelligence users, Starshield is SpaceX’s dedicated defense and government satellite communications service, offering additional security features beyond the commercial Starlink network.
Reportedly, London appears to access Starshield through third-party distributors rather than contracting directly with SpaceX, while one source said pricing is only slightly higher than standard Starlink services.
In a statement to Reuters, the UK Ministry of Defence declined to comment on Starshield, saying Starlink is used for non-operational purposes, including allowing deployed personnel to stay in contact with family members, while military communications rely on a range of service providers.
Military Satellite Services
Military interest in low-Earth-orbit satellite communications has grown since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where Starlink became widely used to maintain communications in areas affected by electronic warfare and damaged infrastructure.
As the network became increasingly integrated into military activities, SpaceX sought to define the limits of its use.
In 2023, SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell said the company had restricted Ukraine’s use of Starlink for offensive military operations.
The firm has also stated that it took steps to prevent what it described as unauthorized use of the service by Russian forces.
Several European militaries have adopted Starlink to varying degrees.
According to Reuters, the Dutch Ministry of Defence said it operates a limited number of Starlink terminals, although it declined to specify whether they are used for operational missions.
Poland has also acknowledged using Starlink alongside military and commercial satellite communications systems.
