Page 154 - ΝΑΥΤΙΚΑ ΧΡΟΝΙΚΑ - ΜΑΙΟΣ 2023

STARLINK:

A WIND OF CHANGE

by Manos Charitos

Elon Musk is undoubtedly a controversial figure who has often Ukraine, Elon Musk agreed to allow Kyiv free access to Star-
made the headlines due to his bold statements, interaction link’s satellite internet service, thus providing Ukraine’s mil-
with his social media followers, his ambitions to colonise Mars, itary with impressive internet capabilities. For this reason,
and grand plans for fully self-driving electric cars. However, according to an intelligence report obtained by the Wash-
his critics often overlook his remarkable scientific and techno- ington Post, Moscow is developing weapons to sabotage
logical achievements that have transformed entire industries Ukrainian forces’ internet access by targeting Starlink sat-
and inspired millions. ellite operations.
One of Elon Musk’s strongest attributes is his entrepreneur- However, Starlink was not developed with the needs of mili-
ial acumen— especially his talent for choosing investments tary forces in times of war in mind but rather to meet civilian
and recognising opportunities. At a time when the role of needs in an increasingly internet-dependent world. And in this
the internet is becoming increasingly essential to the global light, shipping is no exception.
economy, and while most parts of the world do not have ade- Starlink is attracting the shipping industry’s interest for many
quate or reliable connections, Elon Musk launched Starlink. reasons. Firstly, a reliable, uninterrupted, fast Internet con-
Starlink’s website emphasises that it is the world’s most nection is essential in safely performing remote ship opera-
advanced broadband satellite internet system. It leverages tions. Secondly, a reliable connectivity system is critical as
low-orbit satellites and promises reliable and fast internet in cyberattack threats in shipping are increasing.
every part of the world. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, Starlink’s inter-
One of the reasons for the Starlink Satellite System’s instant net services increase crew satisfaction - one of the perennial
fame was that, shortly after the start of the Russian war on complaints of seafarers, which has now become more intense,

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