Pentagon signs contract to supply Starlink terminals to Ukraine
The U.S. Department of Defense has signed a contract with billionaire Elon Musk's SpaceX to purchase Starlink satellite communication terminals and services for use by the Ukrainian military.
This was reported by Bloomberg.
The Pentagon's statement notes that satellite communications are a vital element in Ukraine's overall communications network, and the Ministry has signed a contract with Starlink to provide this type of service.
"However, for operational security reasons and due to the critical nature of these systems, we do not have additional information on specific capabilities, contracts, or partners we could provide at this time," the Pentagon said in a statement.
Musk's company has restricted Ukraine's use of Starlink Internet to control drones.
The US Defense Department emphasized that it continues to work with a number of global partners to provide Ukraine with the sustainable satellite and communications capabilities it needs.
According to Bloomberg, the Starlink terminals are likely to be purchased under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which is intended to meet Kyiv's long-term security needs.
Author - Olena Madiak, 01/06/2023
