The Japanese government is planning to invest in the development of technology designed to protect satellite telecommunication signals from jamming attacks, with a goal of commercializing the technology by 2033, according to a report by the Nikkei newspaper.
The move comes as concerns grow globally over the vulnerability of satellite communications to disruption, particularly in the context of ongoing conflicts. Russia has been accused of jamming satellite-based telecom services during the conflict in Ukraine, disrupting communications for both military and civilian users.
Recent events have highlighted the critical role of satellite internet, particularly Starlink, in modern warfare. Ukrainian officials confirmed in February 2026 that Starlink terminals used by Russian forces in Ukraine had been deactivated following discussions between Ukraine’s defense minister and Elon Musk, the head of SpaceX, which operates the Starlink network. Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s defense minister, praised Musk’s swift response to reports of Russian drones utilizing Starlink connectivity for attacks.
The Ukrainian Defense Ministry stated that SpaceX was updating a “whitelist” of approved Starlink terminals, blocking access for unapproved Russian systems. A source within the Ukrainian armed forces claimed that “all Russian Starlinks have been cut off” along the front lines as of February 5, 2026. This action followed reports that Russia had been mounting Starlink systems on its attack drones, enabling them to bypass Ukraine’s electronic defenses and strike deeper into the country.
While Starlink has been crucial for Ukraine’s military communications and drone operations, the reliance on a privately-owned satellite network has also raised questions about control and potential vulnerabilities. The disruption of Starlink access for Russian forces demonstrates the capability to selectively restrict access, but also underscores the potential for broader service disruptions, as experienced in Ukraine, France, and Iran.
The Japanese government’s initiative aims to create an indigenous capability to counter jamming attacks, reducing reliance on foreign systems. The specific technologies being developed have not been disclosed, but the 2033 commercialization target suggests a long-term commitment to securing satellite communications infrastructure.
The Institute for the Study of War warned in January 2026 that equipping Russian Molniya-2 drones with Starlink had dramatically increased their battlefield efficiency. Musk indicated on X that measures taken to prevent unauthorized Russian utilize of Starlink had been effective, noting that SpaceX had introduced a speed limit of 75kph on terminals moving over Ukraine to hinder drone control.
