House Democrats are opening an investigation into Elon Musk's SpaceX amid worries that Russian forces have acquired the company's internet satellite terminals, according to a letter on Wednesday.Â
Ukraine has depended on SpaceX's Starlink during its counteroffensives against Russia, with the U.S. government channeling resources to support Ukraine.
Starlink provides high-speed broadband internet globally through a low Earth orbit.
In 2023, Starlink secured a contract with the U.S. Defense Department for the acquisition of 400 to 500 new Starlink terminals and services designated for Ukraine.
In February, Ukrainian authorities disclosed intercepted audio communications between Russian forces, suggesting the unauthorized deployment and activation of Starlink terminals.
“Russian procurement of, use of, or interference with Starlink terminals each has the potential to advance Russia's brutal and illegitimate invasion of Ukraine,” as stated in the letter.
Requests for voluntary information from the minority party often precede subpoenas once they regain the majority.
Democratic legislators are seeking information from SpaceX by March 20, including the number of reports regarding illegal acquisition the company has received, its process for assessing complaints, and the policies in place to prevent illegal usage.
The letter emphasized the importance of depriving Russia of any trade that bolsters its military capabilities.
