Russian intelligence claims Moscow is developing miniature fragmentation weapons to attack the Starlink satellite constellation, according to AP reports based on NATO agencies.
Russia Developing Weapon Against Starlink
Russian intelligence says Moscow is working on weapons to strike the Starlink satellite network. The Associated Press reports that NATO intelligence services from two countries have filed reports detailing Russia’s plans to use microscopic fragments to target the system, potentially damaging many satellites at once. An attack could also ripple through other orbital systems. According to the agency, Russia views Starlink as a “serious threat.” Moscow has previously warned that it could target commercial satellites aiding Ukrainian forces.
Analyst Skepticism
Analysts who examined the materials argue that a weapon of this type would inevitably create uncontrolled chaos in space, affecting satellites of other countries and companies. Russia itself and its ally China would also feel negative consequences. Victoria Samson, a space‑security specialist at Secure World Foundation, said she would be surprised if Russians built such a capability. Brigadier General Christopher Horner, commander of the Canadian Space Operations Centre, warned that while he cannot confirm the system’s existence, it was not unthinkable if Russia were developing a comparable but less nuclear‑level destructive weapon within its research scope.
Starlink’s Role in Ukraine
Ukrainians use Starlink for battlefield communications, and civilians and government officials also rely on it. Many experts say Elon Musk’s satellites were vital for the Ukrainian command system and have boosted drone usage. The Polish government subsidizes these terminals: in March, the Ministry of Digital Affairs announced that from 2022‑2024 the Institute of Communications – State Research Institute (IŁ‑PIB) purchased 24,560 Starlink terminals. They were delivered to Kyiv for “use,” and the subscription fee was also covered. Over that period, almost 323 million PLN was spent on both the terminals and the monthly subscription.