The Ukrainian Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) has expressed apprehension regarding Russia's acquisition of Starlink satellite Internet terminals from Arab nations, as disclosed in intercepted Russian communications on February 13.
Image - Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President Of Ukraine. Credit - Shutterstock
In a conversation disclosed by HUR, two Russian individuals were captured discussing the procurement of Starlink technology. One of the participants emphasized the simplicity of acquiring the necessary equipment, stating, "The Arabs are providing us with everything: wires, Wi-Fi, router," and specifying the device's cost at 200 thousand rubles (approximately $2,200).
This revelation follows HUR's earlier announcement that Starlink technology was clandestinely entering Russia, adding a layer of concern to the potential collaboration between Russia and Arab nations in obtaining this advanced satellite internet technology.
According to a report from the Ukrainian military news source Militarny on February 10, a quoted expert indicated that the Russian military had initiated the use of Starlink terminals at their installations, obtaining them through intermediary nations. SpaceX, the company responsible for Starlink, has explicitly clarified that it does not engage in business with the Russian government or its military entities. Elon Musk, the founder of SpaceX, has strongly denied accusations of Starlink terminals being sold to Russia. The assertion of Russian forces utilizing American-made Starlink terminals was substantiated by the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Defense Ministry. Andriy Yusov, spokesperson for HUR, mentioned that this activity "is beginning to become systematic." Yusov further explained that the agency has taken proactive measures to address the potential threat posed by these Starlink terminals operated by Russian forces. This underscores the evolving concern over the strategic use of advanced satellite technology by Russia, prompting the Ukrainian Defense Ministry to respond with precautionary actions.
0 Comments