Why Ukraine Relies on Starlink—and Can Europe Fill the Gap?

Ukraine’s reliance on Starlink has raised a pressing question for Europe: can it provide an alternative if the satellite internet service becomes less reliable? The challenge goes beyond supplying equipment to matching a communications network that can function where ground infrastructure is damaged or unavailable.

Starlink’s importance lies in its ability to deliver internet access without relying on local cables or mobile towers. In wartime, that makes satellite connections valuable for maintaining communications and coordinating activity in areas where conventional networks face disruption.

Yet dependence on a single service creates vulnerabilities. Interruptions, coverage limitations or changes in access can leave users with few immediate alternatives, making backup systems an important part of Ukraine’s communications needs.

Europe has satellite communications capabilities, but replacing Starlink would require more than making capacity available. Any substitute would also need suitable terminals, reliable coverage and the ability to support users across difficult and rapidly changing conditions.

The central issue is therefore how quickly Europe could turn its resources into a practical alternative. A combination of satellite services and ground-based networks could reduce Ukraine’s dependence, but providing a seamless replacement would be a much larger undertaking.