Zelenskyy: Starlink Capped at 161 km/h, Preventing the Downing of Jet-Powered "Shahed" Drones

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the Starlink service in Ukraine is restricted to a speed of 161 kilometers per hour and ceases to function above this limit, preventing Ukrainian interceptor drones from catching up with and downing jet-powered "Shahed" drones, according to Ukrinform news agency.

Zelenskyy explained that vehicles equipped with Starlink were tested in EU countries and continued to work at a speed of 180 kilometers per hour, describing the restriction imposed in Ukraine as a "planned operation" rather than an accidental technical glitch.

He said that SpaceX does not communicate with the Ukrainian military, and that the U.S. Department of Defense (Pentagon) has not yet provided an explanation for the limitations imposed on the service, according to the agency.

This comes at a time when Ukraine relies on Starlink for field communications and drone guidance, making any change in service terms have a direct impact on its operational capabilities.

What do these terms mean?

Starlink: A satellite internet network provided by SpaceX, offering high-speed connectivity in areas lacking terrestrial networks.

Jet-powered "Shahed": A kamikaze drone powered by a jet engine, making it difficult for slower drones to catch up with it.

Interceptor drone: A drone used to intercept and destroy other drones in the air.

The Pentagon: The headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense, overseeing military operations and aid provided to countries such as Ukraine.