Ukraine’s Growing Need for Secure Satellite Communication
As Ukraine continues to defend itself against Russian aggression, maintaining uninterrupted satellite communication is a top priority. SpaceX’s Starlink has played a crucial role in providing high-speed, low-latency internet connectivity across Ukraine, especially in areas with damaged infrastructure. However, increasing concerns over the reliability of Starlink’s availability for military and government operations have led Ukraine to explore alternative solutions.
According to Politico, the European Commission is actively looking for ways to support Ukraine’s transition to alternative satellite communication networks, ensuring the country’s connectivity remains stable and secure.
Why Ukraine is Seeking Starlink Alternatives
Starlink has been instrumental in Ukraine’s military operations, enabling secure communications, intelligence sharing, and drone coordination. However, recent developments have raised concerns:
- Restrictions on Military Use – In early 2023, SpaceX imposed limitations preventing Ukraine from using Starlink for drone control in battlefield operations. Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX’s president, stated that Starlink was “never meant to be weaponized” and that its use in drone warfare was beyond the company’s intended purpose.
- Transfer of Control to the Pentagon – In September 2023, Elon Musk handed over control of some Starlink terminals used by the Ukrainian military to the Pentagon. This move was reportedly driven by Musk’s reluctance to be directly involved in military operations.
- Reports of Russian Use of Starlink – In February 2025, reports surfaced alleging that Russian forces had gained access to Starlink terminals. Musk responded by calling the claims “false” and insisted that SpaceX does not sell its products to Russia.
These uncertainties have pushed Ukraine to seek alternative satellite providers that can ensure reliable, uninterrupted access, particularly for military and emergency services.
Europe’s Plan to Support Ukraine’s Transition
The European Commission has acknowledged Ukraine’s concerns and is working on multiple solutions to help the country transition away from reliance on Starlink. The key options being explored include:
1. Govsatcom – The EU’s Secure Satellite Network
The Governmental Satellite Communications (Govsatcom) initiative is one of the primary options Ukraine is considering.
- Govsatcom is a pooled network that integrates the existing government satellite capacities of EU member states.
- The system is designed to provide secure, high-availability satellite communication for critical applications, including military operations, crisis management, and disaster response.
- According to European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier, Ukraine has already expressed interest in leveraging this network.
Govsatcom is expected to achieve initial operational readiness later this year, but it is considered a temporary solution until a more robust EU-wide system is available.
2. IRIS² – The EU’s Future Satellite Constellation
The Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite (IRIS²) is a long-term project that aims to provide a European alternative to systems like Starlink.
- IRIS² is expected to be a sovereign, secure, and resilient satellite network built by the EU.
- However, the system is not expected to be fully operational until the 2030s, making it an impractical immediate replacement for Starlink.
- While it remains a long-term goal, Ukraine requires an urgent solution, making Govsatcom and commercial alternatives more viable at this stage.
3. Commercial Satellite Providers – Eutelsat, Hispasat, SES, and OneWeb
To ensure uninterrupted satellite access, Ukraine is also exploring commercial satellite providers that already have operational networks.
- Eutelsat, Hispasat, and SES are well-established providers with geostationary satellites capable of delivering high-speed broadband and secure communication services.
- OneWeb, a British company, has emerged as one of the most promising alternatives.
- OneWeb operates a constellation of satellites designed to provide broadband connectivity in remote and war-affected regions.
- Kyivstar, Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, has been designated as the official representative of OneWeb in Ukraine.
- OneWeb can offer high-speed, low-latency satellite internet, making it an attractive Starlink alternative for both civilian and military applications.
Implications for Ukraine’s Military and Civilian Communications
A reliable satellite communication system is essential not only for Ukraine’s military but also for government operations, emergency response, and civilian resilience.
- Military Operations – Secure satellite communication is critical for command and control, intelligence-sharing, and drone coordination. Losing access to a dependable satellite network could severely impact Ukraine’s battlefield capabilities.
- Civilian Infrastructure – Starlink has played a crucial role in keeping civilians connected in regions where traditional communication infrastructure has been destroyed. Any disruption in satellite services could impact hospitals, emergency services, and businesses.
- Cybersecurity and Geopolitical Risks – Relying on a privately-owned satellite network like Starlink has introduced risks, as seen in SpaceX’s policy changes. Transitioning to Govsatcom and European commercial providers will help Ukraine reduce dependence on external entities.
The Future of Ukraine’s Satellite Communications
As Ukraine moves towards greater satellite communication independence, the country is taking a strategic approach by combining government-backed solutions (Govsatcom), long-term EU projects (IRIS²), and commercial alternatives (OneWeb, Eutelsat, SES, and Hispasat).
While Starlink has been a game-changer in Ukraine’s defense and civilian connectivity, its uncertain availability highlights the importance of diversifying satellite communication sources.
With EU support, Ukraine is expected to gradually phase in alternative networks while ensuring continuous satellite coverage for both military and civilian applications.
