Lawmakers Demand SpaceX Internet for U.S. Military in Taiwan

A group of U.S. lawmakers led by Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-WI) is calling on Elon Musk to make SpaceX’s Starshield military-specific satellite communications network available to American defense forces in Taiwan. In a letter to Musk, Gallagher highlighted SpaceX’s contractual obligation to provide the U.S. Department of Defense with “global access” to its satellite internet services, noting that the Pentagon is committing “tens of millions of dollars” to StarShield. The letter, dated February 24, expressed concern that SpaceX may be withholding broadband internet services in and around Taiwan, possibly breaching its contractual obligations with the U.S. government.

Gallagher emphasized the importance of a robust communication network for U.S. military personnel in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the event of Chinese aggression against Taiwan. He requested that Musk provide a briefing to the Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party about Starshield availability in and around Taiwan by March 8.

The request comes amid growing tensions between China and Taiwan, with the Pentagon focusing on the future of Taiwan and the potential threat of a Chinese invasion. Taiwan’s National Communications Commission has blamed Chinese ships for cutting undersea internet cables, highlighting the need for alternative communication systems.

While Taiwan initially sought to secure communications with SpaceX’s StarLink in 2019, talks stalled over ownership requirements for telecommunications companies. Musk insisted on retaining full ownership of Starlink operations in Taiwan, leading Taiwan to explore developing its satellite system.

Despite lawmaker pressure, Musk’s stance on providing Starshield services to Taiwan remains uncertain. His business ties with China, including Tesla’s significant revenue from the country, have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Musk’s comments suggesting Taiwan is part of China have further strained relations, with Taiwanese officials emphasizing Taiwan’s independence.

While Starlink could address Taiwan’s communication vulnerabilities, some argue that it shouldn’t be the sole solution. Former Congress member Will Hurd expressed concern about relying solely on Starlink for satellite communications, emphasizing the need for alternative options to avoid a specific point of failure.

It remains to be seen how Musk will respond to the lawmakers’ request, given the importance of SpaceX’s military contracts with the U.S. government. Despite Musk’s reluctance to be involved in conflicts, the strategic importance of Taiwan to U.S. interests may influence his decision regarding Starshield services in the region.

Gallagher’s call for Musk to provide Starshield services to Taiwan reflects broader concerns about the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region. As tensions between China and Taiwan continue to escalate, the availability of reliable communication networks for U.S. military forces in the region remains a top priority for lawmakers.