Senator Blumenthal launches probe into Starshield limits affecting Ukraine’s drone defense
Senator Richard Blumenthal announced an inquiry into SpaceX’s overnight restriction of Starshield speeds in Ukraine, which hampered the military’s ability to counter Russian drones.
U.S. Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal disclosed on Oct. 22 that he is probing a sudden curtailment of Starshield satellite bandwidth used by Ukraine’s armed forces. SpaceX reportedly imposed a 161-kilometer-per-hour speed cap on Oct. 14, weakening Ukrainian drones’ ability to shoot down Russian jet-powered UAVs. Blumenthal addressed a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, asking the Pentagon to identify who authorized the restriction and to detail the U.S. military’s dependence on Starlink-derived services.
Media reports link the decision to SpaceX founder Elon Musk, and note that President Donald Trump contacted Musk to lift the limits, yet the cap persists according to one outlet source. The senator also questioned the roles of the Pentagon, the White House, and SpaceX in controlling such critical capabilities. He requested a response by Nov. 5, though Democrats lack subpoena power ahead of the Nov. 3 midterms.
Why it matters
The probe could reveal who controls vital communications tech that Ukraine relies on against Russian attacks.
How this story developed
- Oct 15 Ukrainian forces report restoration and improving performance of Starshield terminals
- Oct 16 US-imposed speed limits on Starshield reduced bandwidth for Ukrainian frontline units.
- Oct 17 Starlink service was restored following talks between the UK and US defence secretaries.
- Oct 20 SpaceX posted $14.6 billion in Q3 revenue, a 161% year-over-year rise driven by its Super Intelligence segment and expanding Connectivity business.
- Oct 20 Zelensky appealed to Secretary of State Marco Rubio for restoration of full Starshield access.
- Oct 21 A 160 km/h speed cap was reported to have been imposed on Starshield after Elon Musk instructed the limit following talks with President Trump.
- Oct 23 SpaceX disclosed a $14.6 billion Q3 revenue figure, updating the earlier description of its earnings.
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