Russia’s illicit use of Starlink increases Russian effectiveness, Ukrainian soldiers report

Russian forces are widely using Starlink terminals acquired through a black market in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian war, according to a report by The Washington Post on 12 October. These satellite internet devices, originally used only by Ukraine as a military asset, are now being used by Russian troops to enhance their battlefield coordination, drone operations, and artillery accuracy.

WP wrote, “The issue has renewed Ukrainian frustrations over Elon Musk, SpaceX’s mercurial chief executive. Some of the soldiers criticized Musk by name, saying his company has not done enough to crack down on illicit use and casting doubt on his desire to fix the problem, saying he appears to have favorable views toward Russia.”

Ukrainian soldiers from various units across Donetsk Oblast have reported that Russia has effectively closed the technology gap, making their forces more cohesive and increasing the number and precision of attacks. An officer from the 72nd Mechanized Brigade, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the Russian use of Starlink was a crucial factor in the recent fall of Vuhledar.

The proliferation of these terminals among Russian forces has been facilitated by a burgeoning black market. The Washington Post reviewed four Russian websites offering direct sales of Starlink terminals for military use, with prices starting at just over $1,000. These terminals are reportedly sourced from Europe and transported through the United Arab Emirates.

The US and Ukrainian governments are working with SpaceX to prevent Russia’s illicit use of Starlink terminals in occupied Ukraine. Lt. Col. Charlie Dietz, a Defense Department spokesman, mentioned that the US Treasury Department is focusing on potential sanctions violations related to the international smuggling effort.

The issue has reignited debates about Musk’s role in the war, following reports that he denied Ukraine’s request to use Starlink for a planned attack on Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in 2022. Musk’s biographer, Walter Isaacson, also wrote that the SpaceX CEO sought counsel from the Russian ambassador to the United States and expressed concerns about escalating the conflict.

The impact of Russia’s Starlink use has been particularly noticeable in recent months. Ukrainian troops have reported seeing Starlink terminals in Russian positions near Novohrodivka since September. A drone platoon commander with the 93rd Mechanized Brigade, identified only as Eugene, stated that Russian forces have significantly improved their tactical coordination as a result.

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