SpaceX has warned that a European Union plan to reserve satellite spectrum for European operators could disrupt connectivity for emergency services in Ukraine. The company, led by Elon Musk, argues the proposal risks breaking essential communication links.
The Financial Times reports that SpaceX submitted a document opposing the EU's initiative, which seeks to reserve part of a spectrum band for European satellite operators. The firm contends this could hinder the provision of services to Ukraine, where its Starlink terminals are widely used by military and civilian responders.
SpaceX specifically noted the plan could affect connectivity for emergency responders in Ukraine who rely on Starlink. The EU has not yet finalized the proposal, which is part of broader efforts to boost the bloc's space-based communications capabilities.
The dispute underscores tensions between non-European satellite providers and the EU as it seeks to foster its own digital sovereignty and reduce reliance on external infrastructure. A similar clash occurred when the EU backed its own low-earth orbit satellite constellation, Iris².
SpaceX's criticism highlights the broader challenge of balancing regional industrial policy with global operational needs, particularly in conflict zones.