UK defence ministry spends nearly $40 million on SpaceX Starshield and Starlink satellite services

Britain’s defence ministry revealed that it has spent nearly $40 million on SpaceX satellite services, allocating about £13 million to the militarised Starshield service and £16.5 million to the commercial Starlink network. The UK now runs roughly 1,000 Starshield terminals and 500 Starlink terminals, moving more operational traffic to Starshield, which offers enhanced encryption, dedicated ground gateways, and the highest level of network prioritisation.

Starshield pricing is substantially higher, with plans ranging from £5,500 to £25,000 per month and terminals costing £4,000-£7,000 each. The adoption followed a SpaceX directive that Starlink be used only for morale, welfare, recreation and training purposes. The move highlights European concerns about reliance on U.S. security assets, especially after Elon Musk’s public criticism of the British government. Other partners, including New Zealand, are also evaluating Starshield, while the UK retains its own Skynet system and holds a stake in France-based Eutelsat.