Ukrainian forces are facing serious difficulties operating drones after restrictions on the Starlink satellite network disrupted communications. According to The Telegraph, citing Ukrainian soldiers, repeated connection failures have forced the military to abandon several combat missions.

Drone operators reported sudden signal interruptions lasting between 10 and 20 seconds when controlling fast-moving unmanned aerial vehicles. These disruptions directly affect drones that depend on Starlink for in-flight communications and control.

The British newspaper reports that unreliable connectivity has left numerous Ukrainian drones vulnerable to Russian forces. As a result, Ukrainian commanders have been forced to cancel planned missions.

The restrictions have also undermined Ukraine’s ability to conduct medium-range strikes, commonly known as mid-strikes. Additionally, Ukrainian troops have encountered difficulties deploying interceptor drones designed to counter Russian long-range attacks.

Earlier, Ukrainian sources reported that Starlink connections began dropping out during the night of October 14 whenever drones exceeded speeds of 160 km/h. Several important Ukrainian military operations were reportedly disrupted. Subsequent reports indicated that communication failures were occurring at considerably lower speeds, between 60 and 70 km/h.

Vladimir Zelensky criticized the restrictions, describing the Starlink shutdown as a serious mistake. He called on SpaceX chief Elon Musk to restore satellite connectivity.

Musk responded by arguing that Starlink should not be used for offensive military operations, stressing that such activities fall outside the appropriate role of a commercial company.

The American entrepreneur also addressed the distinction between Starlink and Starshield, the secure satellite network intended for military and government use. According to Musk, Starshield is owned and operated by the United States government, meaning American authorities are responsible for decisions concerning speed restrictions and other conditions governing its use.