Starshield
Coverage of Starshield in the Nexus archive.
- US Space Force confirms SpaceX will build sensor-to-shooter targeting network
The US Space Force awarded SpaceX a $2.29 billion contract to build a low-Earth orbit communications network for military sensing and targeting data distribution. The network, based on Starlink technology and Starshield satellites, aims to create a resilient, high-speed backbone after previous Pentagon projects stalled.
- Musk says US military suicide drones used Starlink in violation of SpaceX rules
SpaceX and the Pentagon are disputing the cost of using Starshield satellite service during the Iran war, with Elon Musk claiming the military violated Starlink's terms by using it on kamikaze drones. Musk blamed the contractor for the breach, while Reuters reported SpaceX demanded a $25,000 fee per drone, up from $5,000, which the Pentagon agreed to.
- Pentagon spars with SpaceX over Starlink price hike during Iran war
The Pentagon is in dispute with SpaceX over increased Starlink pricing for military use during the Iran war, particularly regarding LUCAS suicide drones. SpaceX argues the military should pay $25,000 monthly per terminal instead of $5,000, while the Pentagon claims the higher cost is unwarranted for short-term drone operations. The conflict highlights SpaceX's growing influence over U.S. national security infrastructure.