Since then, the Ukrainian Defense Forces have acquired up to 100,000 SpaceX satellite communication terminals, many of which are funded through foreign government contracts, including those from the U.S. Department of Defense.

Starlink began operating in Ukraine on February 27, 2022, after a request from the country's Minister of Digital Transformation, Mykhailo Fedorov.

While losing Starlink would complicate drone operations and targeting, it would not leave the military without communication capabilities.

There have been instances where Starlink services were intentionally shut down during Ukrainian drone attacks, raising questions about the reliability of the system.

The cost of Starlink subscriptions in Ukraine is approximately $10 million monthly, with individual terminals priced at $120 each.

SpaceX has demonstrated the effectiveness of Starlink in Ukraine, which has led to the development of tailored service packages for military and government use globally.

Currently, there are no indications that Starlink will be disconnected, but if it were, it could lead to significant operational challenges, especially in the context of Russian misinformation.

Despite concerns about a potential global Starlink shutdown, communications expert Serhiy 'Flash' Beskrestnov believes such an event is unlikely, and Ukrainian forces are prepared for any scenario.

However, the possibility of Elon Musk shutting down Starlink services in Ukraine remains a concern, particularly amid pro-Russian sentiments within the U.S. government.

In response to these uncertainties, the Ukrainian military has diversified its communications to include alternative channels beyond Starlink.