Ukraine's Starlink Restrictions Expose Europe's Satellite Dependence — Could OneWeb Provide a Solution?
Martin Broughton — Research & Analysis | 20 October 2026
Ukraine has reported restrictions affecting SpaceX's military-grade Starshield satellite communications, disrupting drone operations and exposing Europe's dependence on American-controlled technology. The incident prompted a sharp rise in shares of European satellite operator Eutelsat, renewing interest in alternatives to Starlink.
What Happened in Ukraine?
On 14 October, Ukrainian officials reported that satellite communications were being restricted when equipment travelled faster than approximately 160 kilometres per hour. Presidential adviser Serhii Beskrestnov said the restrictions disrupted operations, while Ukraine's 7th Rapid Reaction Corps confirmed that some drone missions had been cancelled.
Reuters subsequently reported, citing unnamed American officials, that the instruction originated within the White House. However, the US administration disputed responsibility.
Britain's OneWeb and Europe's Alternatives
Eutelsat shares gained approximately 31% during the week as attention turned towards its OneWeb constellation of around 600 low-Earth-orbit satellites.
Britain helped rescue OneWeb in 2020 before its merger with France's Eutelsat in 2023. Both governments retain strategic interests in the company, making it an important part of European satellite independence.
However, OneWeb cannot immediately replace Starlink's military capabilities, particularly for fast-moving drones.
An Interim European Solution
Rather than waiting for the EU's IRIS² satellite constellation, Europe could expand its existing infrastructure.
The EU's GOVSATCOM programme, operational since January 2026, already pools secure satellite communications from participating European countries. Ukraine's potential participation is also under discussion.
A coordinated UK–European programme could combine OneWeb, Luxembourg's SES satellite networks and existing military communications infrastructure, including Britain's Skynet system. Investment in compatible terminals and additional capacity could provide a more resilient alternative to American-controlled services.
Such an arrangement would require technical integration, security agreements and government cooperation, but could strengthen European capabilities before IRIS² becomes operational.
Looking Towards IRIS²
The EU's IRIS² programme aims to establish a secure European satellite communications constellation, with initial launches planned for 2029 and wider capabilities expected during the following years.
The Starlink restrictions demonstrate why Europe needs independent satellite communications. By combining existing networks through GOVSATCOM and cooperation with Britain, Europe could reduce its dependence on American infrastructure while developing IRIS² as a longer-term solution.