From RNZ · RNZ | Te Reo Irirangi o Aotearoa · · 1m 30s
NZDF tests Musk's secret satellite network
New Zealand Defence Force runs trial of Elon Musk's Starshield for military communications.
In brief
New Zealand Defence Force runs trial of Elon Musk's Starshield for military communications. New Zealand Defence Force completed a trial of Elon Musk's Starshield satellite network for secure military communications, finding potential utility despite concerns about reliance on private systems. Originally reported by…
NZDF trial begins
New Zealand Defence Force started a six-month trial of Musk's Starshield satellite network for secure military communications.
Trial shows potential
Defence confirmed Starshield trial found potential utility for New Zealand military operations.
Ukraine access cut
Ukraine's access to Starshield was reduced last month, jeopardising combat and air defence missions.
NZDF signs indemnity
Defence Minister Judith Collins signed an indemnity agreement in December 2.
US government purchase
The trial was purchased through US Foreign Military Sales with Defence Minister's indemnity.
Starlink vs Starshield
NZDF uses Starlink for internet but Starshield offers higher encryption for military communications.
Indemnity cost limit
Any loss under the indemnity would be unlikely to exceed $10 million.
NZDF's military weakness
NZDF is 700 personnel short in critical leadership and instructors.
Fast track request
NZDF asked for a fast track option for Starshield but received none.
Starshield trial purpose
The trial determined Starshield's uses for New Zealand military operations.
US space threats
US Space Force rates Russia an 'acute' threat and China a 'pacing' threat.
Starshield trial outcome
NZDF found Starshield useful for military communications despite Ukraine access issues.
At a glance
New Zealand Defence Force completed a trial of Elon Musk's Starshield satellite network for secure military communications, finding potential utility despite concerns about reliance on private systems.
