Ukraine Says Starlink Speed Limit Disrupted Military Missions

Ukraine’s defense technology adviser Serhii Beskrestnov said a speed limit on military Starlink service disrupted several missions, while a Ukrainian military source described brief connection losses during drone flights.

Beskrestnov said Oct. 14, 2026, that the limit applied to StarShield, which he described as Starlink’s military service package, and capped speeds at 100 mph (160 km/h). He said Ukraine’s defense forces received no warning and that the restriction disrupted missions.

A source with Ukraine’s 7th Rapid Response Corps described connection losses lasting 10 to 20 seconds at speeds of 110 to 120 km/h. The source said drones continued moving during the losses but became harder to control.

A Ukrainian Defense Ministry source said Ukraine was seeking clarification from SpaceX, the United States and NATO. SpaceX has not confirmed the restriction, its scope or its reason.