After claims that Kyiv utilized its satellite internet connection to control drones, SpaceX has blocked Ukraine’s ability to use it for military purposes.
Ukraine was handed thousands of SpaceX Starlink dishes early in the battle, which connect to satellites and let people stay connected to the internet.
However, it is also claimed to have used the technology to target Russian sites with drones, which SpaceX claims violates the service agreement.
Ukraine has yet to respond to the move.
The Starlink technology was “never meant to be weaponized,” claimed SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell on Wednesday during an event in Washington, DC.
She mentioned Ukraine’s reported use of Starlink to control drones, but emphasized that the equipment was provided for humanitarian purposes.
Unmanned aircraft have played a major part in the fight, with Kiev using them to track out Russian troops, deliver bombs, and counter Moscow’s own drone operations.
Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, has also accused Russia of attempting to jam Starlink communications.
Ms Shotwell agreed that it was permissible for the Ukrainian military to employ Starlink equipment “for communications,” but she stated that she did not intend for them to utilize it for offensive purposes.
She stated that the company had taken efforts to “restrict” the Ukrainian military forces’ ability to use Starlink offensively – without providing any specifics.
The CEO claimed she couldn’t say whether these initiatives were to blame for Starlink service failures late last year.
Following its invasion of its neighbor in February of last year, Russia moved rapidly to shut down local internet services and restrict social media.
Soon after, the first Starlink dishes – or terminals – were delivered to Ukraine in an effort to keep people linked.
They operate by linking to satellites in low-Earth orbit.
Others, in addition to the terminals delivered directly by the corporation, have been supported by foreign governments.
Mr Musk indicated in October that he would not be able to continue sponsoring Starlink in Ukraine, only to quickly reverse his opinion.
In a tweet last week, the billionaire addressed the topic once more, admitting that there was a problem at hand.
“SpaceX Starlink has become the connectivity backbone of Ukraine all the way up to the front lines. This is the damned if you do part,” he wrote.
“However, we are not allowing Starlink to be used for long-range drone strikes. This is the damned if you don’t part.”
