The US Department of Defense extends the contract with Elon Musk's SpaceX to provide Starlink Internet services in Ukraine, increasing the total amount to $40 million.
The Pentagon extends Starlink
Extended contract
The US Department of Defense has entered into a new agreement with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to continue providing Starlink satellite Internet services in Ukraine. The updated contract runs through November 30 and includes a payment of $14 million, bringing the total contract value to $40 million.
Importance of Starlink to Ukraine
Since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion, Ukraine has been actively using the Starlink system to provide critical communications at the front, as well as to meet the needs of the civilian population. As of the end of 2022, Ukraine received about 10,000 Starlink terminals.
Elon Musk's concerns
Elon Musk has previously expressed concerns about the financial costs of supporting Starlink in Ukraine and threatened to cut off funding. The billionaire also stated that Starlink satellites were not intended for military use, and feared an escalation of the conflict that could lead to World War III. Musk even proposed his own “peace plan,” including the cession of Crimea to Russia and the holding of referendums in the occupied regions.
Previous Pentagon and SpaceX contracts
In 2023, the US Department of Defense entered into a separate contract with SpaceX worth $23 million to provide satellite Internet services in Ukraine. The current extension increases the total value of the deal to almost $40 million. In addition, the Pentagon has an agreement with Musk to launch military satellites.
Glossary
- SpaceX is an American company, manufacturer of launch vehicles and commercial space carriers, founded by Elon Musk.
- Starlink is a satellite broadband Internet system developed by SpaceX to provide global Internet access.
- Elon Musk is an American entrepreneur, engineer and billionaire, founder of SpaceX, Tesla and others.
- The Pentagon is a building in Arlington, Virginia, home to the United States Department of Defense.
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Answers to questions
What is the total value of the contract between the Pentagon and SpaceX to provide Starlink services in Ukraine?
What does the Pentagon-SpaceX contract for Starlink services include?
Why has Ukraine been using Starlink since the start of the full-scale invasion?
What concerns did Elon Musk express regarding the financing of Starlink in Ukraine?
Does the US Department of Defense have other contracts with SpaceX besides Starlink services?
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Discussion of the topic – The Pentagon extended SpaceX's contract for Starlink services for Ukraine by another $14 million
The Pentagon extended the agreement with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to provide Starlink Internet services in Ukraine until November 30, 2023 for $40 million, adding another $14 million to the main contract.
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Андреас
Starlink support has become a serious contribution for Ukraine. 🇺🇦 Despite Musk's fears, satellite Internet turned out to be incredibly useful.
Изабель
Yes, this is very important for communication on the front lines and assistance to civilians. But don't forget that $40 million is a serious amount for SpaceX.
Витольд
You are right, but isn't this a small thing compared to military budgets? 🤔 In addition, Starlink has great potential for future contracts.
Франц
Bang! 💥 That's exactly what I would say! The Pentagon must continue to support Ukraine in every way possible. And let Musk not complain about spending.
Густав
Oh, these rich guys... 🙄 They complain about spending, but get lucrative contracts. What about ordinary people who are losing their homes?
Карлос
Musk is a smart businessman, but his "peace plan" was ridiculous. 😂 Crimea should never be ceded to Russia.
Герман
Phew, all these technological innovations are making me tired. 😒 Why do we need Starlink when we have time-tested pigeons?
София
Don't be such a grump, Herman! 🤨 Starlink is an important innovation that helps people stay connected during difficult times.