Musk: The Front Would Collapse Without Starlink

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Musk: The Front Would Collapse Without Starlink
Photo: Alex Brandon/AP/TT

Starlink constitutes the Ukrainian army's backbone, claims the satellite network's founder Elon Musk. "Their entire frontline would collapse if I turned it off", asserts the tech billionaire.

Musk describes the war as "years of stalemate that Ukraine will inevitably lose".

"All those who care, think and understand on a deeper level want to stop the meat grinder", he writes on X.

It is unclear what Musk is after, but the USA has previously threatened to cut off Ukraine's access to Starlink if Kyiv does not sign Donald Trump's mineral deal.

Starlink's internet terminals have played a crucial role in Ukraine's war communication, not least at the front lines in the east.

The satellite network is, however, not decisive for the country's defense capabilities, according to Hans Liwång, professor of defense systems at the Defense University. A potential shutdown would still have consequences – primarily for civilians, he told TT last week.

Starlink is a piece of the puzzle in a trend that is currently slipping out of Ukraine's hands.

One of several global satellite networks, intended to offer telephone and data connections regardless of where you are.

Starlink is a project within the American space company Space X, where billionaire Elon Musk is the largest owner.

The satellites began to be launched in 2019. By the end of 2023, Starlink's network consisted of over 5,000 small satellites.

The services are quite expensive, both in terms of the receiver you need to purchase and the subscription cost. But they are popular in rural areas and as an alternative where ground infrastructure is destroyed. Therefore, they have gained an important role in war zones, including in Ukraine.

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By TTEnglish edition by Sweden Herald, adapted for local and international readers

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