Ukraine says Starshield speed limit blunts drone interception
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Starshield satellite links are again capped at about 161 km/h (100 mph), limiting interceptor drones that chase Russian jet-powered Shahed drones. He reported the restriction affects the front line and occupied areas and that his military found it systematic, not random. Some strikes have already penetrated air defences as a result. Ukraine is seeking clarification from the United States, and neither US officials nor SpaceX had commented at the time of reporting. A similar cap in mid-October was lifted on 24 Oct.
Key facts
- The restriction reportedly began gradually three days before the statement and is now at full effect, according to a Ukrainian official.
- Terminals moving faster than 161 km/h reportedly lose their satellite connection.
- Ukrainian interceptor drones rely on Starshield to chase Shahed drones that can fly up to 500 km/h.
- A Ukrainian official said the issue was not raised in the Abu Dhabi peace talks and it is unclear who made the decision.
- US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are meeting Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow after Abu Dhabi talks.
Summarised with AI from 5 sources · Updated 01:11Read our AI policy
Why it matters
The speed cap reduces Ukraine's ability to intercept aerial drone attacks.
What changed
Summary updated
First published from Meduza, NBC News, The Straits Times, Al-Monitor and The Jerusalem Post