Reports are coming from Ukraine about disruptions in Starlink operation when terminals move at speeds above 160 km/h. This was reported by a high-ranking Ukrainian volunteer.
The author of the message suggested that the restriction could have been introduced by SpaceX at the request of the US administration.
At the same time, the 160 km/h limit is already provided for in the standard Starlink terms for a number of plans. Therefore, for now it cannot be stated that this is a new restriction introduced specifically for Ukraine.
In February 2026, Ukraine and SpaceX introduced mandatory registration of terminals. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense then explained this as a measure against the use of satellite communications by Russian strike drones for long-range control.
If the reports are true, the restriction could complicate the use of drones that use Starlink for data transmission and control at speeds above 160 km/h. A reduction in speed can increase flight time and, accordingly, the time the device spends in the detection and air defense zone.
