Europe eyes Starlink alternative amid Ukraine war reliance

As the war in Ukraine rages on, Starlink has become an indispensable tool for Ukrainian forces, enabling secure communication, drone control, and precise artillery coordination.

Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service has filled a crucial gap, offering real-time connectivity on the frontlines where traditional infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed.

However, this heavy reliance on a system controlled by a private U.S. company has raised concerns among European leaders, reports The Wall Street Journal.

The continent's defense and cybersecurity authorities are increasingly uneasy about depending on Musk's SpaceX, especially as Starlink's involvement in military operations continues to grow.

Fears were further fueled by instances in which Musk appeared to wield significant control over battlefield decisions.

Reports emerged that he refused requests to extend Starlink coverage in certain areas to avoid escalating the conflict, highlighting the risks of geopolitical influence being concentrated in the hands of a single individual.

In response, European policymakers and tech developers are now accelerating efforts to build a sovereign satellite communications network.

The European Union has already unveiled plans for IRIS² (Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity and Security by Satellite), a multibillion-euro constellation designed to provide secure and independent satellite internet for both civilian and military use.

The initiative is seen not only as a strategic necessity but also as a matter of technological independence.

European Commissioner Thierry Breton emphasized the importance of not being “hostage to the whims of billionaires” and called for a robust, reliable European alternative to foreign-controlled systems.

The IRIS² program aims to launch its first satellites by 2027, but until then, Starlink remains the primary lifeline for Ukrainian soldiers in the field.

For now, the war has underscored how satellite internet has become a new frontline in modern warfare — and how critical it is for nations to secure their place in the sky.