SpaceX

Despite Starlink’s 7,000+ satellite network’s appeal, Italy is rethinking its options

Starlink’s expansion plan in Italy, which included a potential €1.5 billion contract for secure government communications, has been halted as of March 24, 2025, due to a mix of factors stemming from Elon Musk’s controversial public image.

Launched in Italy in 2021, the Starlink service aimed to provide secure connectivity for diplomatic and defense purposes, with tests already conducted in embassies in Burkina Faso, Bangladesh, Lebanon, and Iran.

However, negotiations stalled following Musk’s controversial statements such as threats to shut down Starlink in Ukraine and his close ties with U.S. President Donald Trump shifting the focus from technical feasibility to political reliability, as noted by Defense Minister Guido Crosetto in an interview with La Repubblica on March 22, 2025.

While not explicitly linked to “hate ending,” public and political skepticism toward Musk in Europe, fueled by his erratic X posts and perceived U.S.-centric influence, has created complications for Italy in trusting SpaceX for its national security needs.

Despite the technical appeal of Starlink’s network of over 7,000 satellites, Italy is now reassessing its options, weighing Musk’s controversies against the lack of immediate European alternatives, leaving the deal in limbo until tensions subside or alternative solutions emerge.

Lila Verma

Senior Writer at EM Power, bringing you the most compelling and in-depth coverage of Elon Musk’s groundbreaking ventures—Tesla, SpaceX, Neuralink, and beyond. Passionate about innovation, technology, and the future Musk is building. Delivering authentic, high-quality insights with precision and speed.

Recent Posts

Trump labeled CNN as ‘fake news’ because it reported in favor of Iran

Donald Trump’s recent accusations of “fake news” against CNN, posted on Truth Social on June 25, 2025, stem from the…

18 hours ago

Axiom Space’s Ax-4 Mission Launched by SpaceX Falcon 9

On June 25, 2025, SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket launched Axiom Space’s Ax-4 mission from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, carrying four…

2 days ago

Trump described the attacks on Iran as “obliteration,” calling them a perfect strike

Former U.S. President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social on June 22, 2025, claiming "monumental damage" and "obliteration" of Iran's…

4 days ago

U.S. Launches Airstrikes on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities Following Netanyahu Meeting

On June 22, 2025, the U.S. conducted airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, using B-2 stealth…

5 days ago

SpaceX successfully launched 26 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California

On June 16, 2025, SpaceX conducted a successful Falcon 9 rocket launch, deploying 26 Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit…

1 week ago

Trump is frustrated with Iran’s stance on the nuclear deal

President Donald J. Trump’s statement reflects his frustration with Iran’s refusal to accept a U.S.-proposed nuclear deal, emphasizing that Iran…

1 week ago

This website uses cookies.