Musk’s Starlink uses the “Starshield,” which utilises low Earth orbit satellites to create a more secure network for military communication. The U.S. does not plan to use Starshield as the main infrastructure. This system will serve as a “redundant” or backup system in case the service’s main communications system gets jammed by enemies.
The US Army will further test the Starshield during the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Centre in Hawaii later this month.
While SpaceX's Starlink is intended for commercial use, Starshield will focus on military applications, particularly communications, space situational awareness, and alternative positioning, navigation, and timing solutions.
It has the high-assurance cryptographic capability to process data securely and meet "the most demanding" military or government requirements.
Furthermore, the system is intended to be user-friendly, allowing even non-expert soldiers to set it up on the battlefield quickly.
