ROME – Italy has installed Starlink antennas in four embassies worldwide to test their performance. However, the government has not yet signed a national security deal with Elon Musk’s company, a minister said on Thursday.
The move is part of Italy’s efforts to secure government communications, especially for diplomats and defense teams working in risky areas. With cyber threats on the rise, having a reliable and encrypted system is crucial. Starlink offers high-speed, low-latency internet, making it a strong option for secure messaging and calls.
Why Starlink?
Unlike traditional networks, Starlink works through satellites, allowing connections even in remote or high-risk locations. This makes it ideal for embassies that need uninterrupted communication, no matter the situation.
However, some politicians are pushing back. They worry about giving control of key security technology to a private company led by a businessman closely linked to the U.S. government. Many believe Italy should develop its own secure satellite network instead.
SpaceX in Action
A SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket successfully launched Starlink satellites from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 26. The growing constellation of satellites is expanding coverage globally, even in places where traditional networks fail.
Testing in Multiple Countries
“Some tests with Starlink satellite systems were started at diplomatic offices in Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, Lebanon, and Iran. These offices have been equipped with Starlink antennas, but none are currently in use,” Minister Luca Ciriani told the Senate.
The Italian government has not yet confirmed if Starlink will be a permanent solution. Instead, officials say they are still exploring different options for secure communication.
What’s Next?
The tests are expected to continue over the next few months. If successful, Italy could roll out Starlink to more embassies, making sure government teams can stay connected in even the toughest conditions.
