Uncertainty over who controls SpaceX's military satellite system, Starshield, has drawn renewed attention, as restrictions on the technology hinder Ukraine's defenses.
Ukraine has accused SpaceX-owned Starlink of restricting its military-grade services, known as Starshield, as Russia intensified attacks on Kyiv.
Officials in Kyiv said SpaceX had imposed restrictions on Starshield without advance notice, disrupting military operations and hampering efforts to protect civilians amid intense Russian attacks this week.
In response, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk appeared to shift responsibility for any changes to Starshield's use in Ukraine to the U.S. government and President Donald Trump. He said that Starshield systems are owned and controlled by Washington, with the U.S. military and ultimately the president determining any limits on their use. The White House and the Pentagon didn't immediately reply to CNBC's request for comment.
Here's what to know about Starshield, and how it differs from Starlink.