DIU: Russia buys Starlink in Arabic countries

Russia buys communications equipment for use in combat, including satellite Internet terminals Starlink, in Arab countries. This was reported by the Defense Intelligence Department of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.

According to the DIU, in a recently intercepted radio conversation features Russian soldiers discussing plans for acquiring a Starlink satellite communication terminal.

"According to one of the invaders, 'the Arabs deliver everything: wires, Wi-Fi, router...', and a Starlink device can be purchased for 200,000 rubles," the intelligence reports.

Starlink. Photo by depositphotos.com

On February 11, 2024, the Defense Intelligence department of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine confirmed the Russian troops are using the satellite communication systems Starlink in combat.

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.