# Pentagon Partners with SpaceX for Unrestricted Starlink Access
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Chapter 1: Pentagon's Strategic Move
In June, the Pentagon finalized an agreement with SpaceX to acquire Starlink terminals for Ukraine, a decision that prevents founder Elon Musk from disabling the service, according to a report by the New York Times. This arrangement includes the purchase of 400 to 500 terminals. Previously, Musk had limited the functionality of Starlink terminals in Ukraine, particularly objecting to their military use, such as for guiding drone attacks.
“The Pentagon will obtain control over the Starlink signals established within Ukraine, enabling the new devices to effectively communicate with their targets,” noted two insiders familiar with the agreement.
Section 1.1: Background of Starlink in Ukraine
Reports indicate that approximately 1,300 Starlink terminals, procured through a British contractor, ceased operations in Ukraine at the end of 2022 due to the government's inability to cover monthly fees of $2,500. As Russia gained ground, Musk's team employed geolocation techniques to restrict Starlink's availability in frontline areas. This limitation created significant challenges for Ukrainian soldiers, especially during operations to reclaim cities like Kherson in Russian-controlled territories.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Military's Plea
The New York Times outlined that Ukrainian officials, including Mr. Fedorov and military personnel, reached out to Musk and SpaceX, requesting the restoration of service in newly liberated areas. However, Musk declined the military's appeal to activate Starlink services in Crimea.
Section 1.2: Implications for Military Operations
Elon Musk's refusal to enable the Starlink network in Crimea has had substantial repercussions on military strategies in the region. According to the New York Times, the Ukrainian military predominantly relies on Starlink for coordinating drone strikes and collecting intelligence, highlighting Musk's unpredictable control over space communications. This situation has prompted the Pentagon to take action.
Chapter 2: Addressing Control Concerns
The newspaper suggests that the Pentagon's proactive steps aim to alleviate concerns over Musk's unilateral authority in managing Starlink access. The military had intended to employ Starlink to guide an explosive-laden naval drone toward Russian vessels in the Black Sea. The request for activation reportedly came from Valeriy Zaluzhnyi, a commander in the Ukrainian army, who criticized Musk's decisions.
Despite initially activating the network for Ukrainian use following Russia's invasion, Musk's subsequent restrictions have drawn criticism. The New York Times points out that Starlink remains crucial for internet access in wartime and disaster-stricken areas, serving as a lifeline for both military and civilian communications.
Continuing Control Issues
Musk's significant influence over satellite internet access has raised alarms among military and political leaders worldwide. The article emphasizes that he is the sole decision-maker regarding the activation or deactivation of Starlink services, which raises concerns about potential exploitation of sensitive information.
To mitigate these issues, the US Department of Defense is set to acquire 400 to 500 new Starlink terminals that Musk cannot disable. This measure will ensure uninterrupted satellite communications for Ukraine, safeguarding against any potential interference from Musk, who previously suggested a peace plan that seemed to align with Russian interests.
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