DI confirms Russians are using Starlink in combat

The Defense Intelligence department of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine confirms the Russian troops are using the satellite communication systems Starlink in combat, reports the DIU on Telegram.

The department notes that an intercepted conversation between the occupiers indicates that some units have set up Starlink terminals to gain Internet access – for example, in the separate assault brigade No. 83. This brigade is fighting near Klishchiivka and Andriivka (Donetsk oblast).

The Russian troops are using Starlink terminals in combat on a growing scale, said DI  representative Andriy Yusov in a comment to RBC-Ukraine.

"Yes, there have been recorded cases of the Russian troops using these devices. This is starting to become systematic," he said.

Previously, SpaceX, which operates the Starlink satellite communication network, denied doing business of any kind with the Russian government or its military.

The company said that Starlink could be purchased in Dubai nor did SpaceX ship there. Additionally, Starlink has not authorized any third-party intermediaries, resellers or distributors of any kind to sell Starlink in Dubai.

"If SpaceX obtains knowledge that a Starlink terminal is being used by a sanctioned or unauthorized party, we investigate the claim and take actions to deactivate the terminal if confirmed," it added.