While Starlink already uses end-to-end encryption during data transmission, the version designed to protect national security interests has “additional highly secure cryptographic capabilities” to securely process and transmit classified data.

Starshield may also support “sounding satellites” – possibly spy satellites. Starlink even said it will develop bespoke options for government customers, including “loaded” satellites.

The Falcon 9 platform is also part of the Starshield system – the rocket has long been approved to carry out secret missions on behalf of the US government.

Everything for the customer

SpaceX underlines that it can develop additional Starshield systems “from scratch” in line with customer requests. For example, Starshield supports network integration of existing government satellites using inter-satellite laser communication systems.

Given that the Pentagon is already actively using SpaceX’s services, the company is likely relying on the US government’s interest in Starshield. At the same time, it is not excluded that access to the system will be provided to other states. However, most of the technologies involved are covered by the ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), a system by the US government that restricts the export of defense technologies.

Everything is ready for work

It is currently unknown whether new Starlink v2 satellites will be required for the system to be fully operational – in which case US government agencies will have to wait. Although Starlink has received approval from the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch 7,500 next-generation objects, launching them into orbit requires using the Starship, which is still under development.

However, some functions can certainly be realized by operating first-generation Starlink satellites. Especially since Starlink v1 was featured on the pages of the SpaceX website.