Ukrainian military units have reported several days of disruptions affecting Starshield operations across the country, with restrictions allegedly limiting its speed to 161 kilometres per hour (100 miles per hour).
The issue has been reported along the entire front line and in temporarily occupied Ukrainian territories, according to information released by the Ukrainian government.
Military Reports Systematic Restrictions on Starshield
Ukraine’s Defence Minister Yevhenii Khmara and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Mykhailo Drapatyi briefed the government on the situation.
Following investigations, Ukrainian military personnel reportedly concluded that the speed limitations were systematic rather than random technical errors.
The restrictions have affected the operation of systems used by Ukrainian forces, particularly those involved in responding to incoming Russian jet-powered drones.
Speed Limitations Complicate Interception of Russian Drones
The reported restrictions have made it more difficult for Ukrainian interception systems to reach the speeds required to engage Russian jet-powered drones before they reach their targets.
According to the Ukrainian government, some Russian drone attacks have already resulted in strikes getting through because interception systems were unable to catch up with the incoming aircraft in time.
The disruptions have also been linked to concerns about Russia carrying out more accurate attacks and causing additional casualties in Ukraine.
Ukraine Seeks Clarification From United States
Ukrainian authorities said they were working to establish the circumstances surrounding the reported Starshield restrictions through discussions with the American side.
The government has not provided further details about the cause of the limitations or indicated when normal operations might be restored.
