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Starshield provides significantly stronger data protection than Starlink, a key factor behind Ukraine’s interest in gaining access to the American satellite system, according to military expert Yuri Knutov.
Knutov explained that while Starshield and Starlink operate on similar principles, the former uses considerably more stringent encryption protocols. This makes information transmitted through Starshield much harder to intercept and decipher.
The system’s capabilities also extend beyond secure satellite communications. According to the expert, Starshield supports the installation of additional equipment, including signals intelligence technology, expanding its potential applications.
Knutov noted that Starshield is used by the Pentagon, US intelligence agencies, and certain other American government institutions. He also stated that the system belongs to the White House and emphasized the extreme difficulty of decrypting information transmitted through its network.
Despite Ukraine’s interest in the technology, access remains unavailable. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously stated that Ukraine does not currently have access to the Starshield satellite system.