US mobilizes big tech including Starlink in Ukraine war
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The Pentagon Press Secretary explained that the US remains committed to its efforts in granting Ukraine strategic communication services.
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Starlink logo is seen on a smartphone in front of displayed Ukrainian flag in this illustration taken February 27, 2022 (Reuters)
The Pentagon has revealed that they are currently holding discussions with Elon Musk’s satellite communication company Starlink to provide relevant assistance to Ukraine against Russia in the ongoing war, according to Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh.
“We are continuing to talk and communicate with Starlink in terms of the services that are being provided to Ukraine,” Singh said during a press briefing.
Read more: SpaceX: Ukraine breaching agreement, weaponizing Starlink
The Secretary explained that the US remains committed to its efforts in granting Ukraine strategic communication services; they have continued to use Starlink’s services while pursuing alternative communication services from other providers to assist Ukraine.
Back in February, Jake Sullivan, the US National Security Advisor, implored tech companies other than Starlink to provide satellite internet services to Ukraine.
Read more: Over 1,570 Starlink terminals arrive in Ukraine from Poland
In December, Deputy Prime Minister Mukhalio Fedorov was cited by Bloomberg saying that more than 10,000 Starlink antennas would be soon installed in Ukraine adding that the EU will be assisting in paying Starlink for Ukraine's expenses.
Prior to this trade deal, Musk revealed that around 20,000 satellite devices were donated to Ukraine since the onset of the war.
Read more: Musk now says will continue funding Starlink in Ukraine
A report published by The Economist in, late March, detailed how SpaceX's Starlink was giving limited advantages to Kiev forces in initiating drone offensives on Russia's grounds.
In the early stages of the conflict, the Ukrainian army said it has immensely benefited from the terminals by connecting its drones to attack Russian forces.
Kiev's forces held expectations a bit too high for the Starlink terminals to assist troops with the manoeuvering of drones which work "at frequencies and in numbers that Russian systems struggle to jam."
Read more: Starlink efficiency reduced over Russia, areas under control - reports
