US Congressman Warns SpaceX’s Actions Could Impact US Government Obligations
In a recent statement, US Congressman Mike Gallagher hinted at the potential impact of SpaceX’s satellite services in the Gulf region on its obligations to the US government. This marks the latest geopolitical wave facing the company’s leader Elon Musk.
Gallagher mentioned in a letter to Musk that a commission he leads has gathered information from multiple sources that SpaceX’s Starshield division has satellite broadband activities in the Gulf region. “SpaceX’s ability to provide satellite broadband services around the Gulf could affect its obligations to the US government,” Gallagher wrote in the letter, which was first reported by The Wall Street Journal.
The Congressman expressed concern that any communication issues arising from a potential military invasion in the Gulf, including communication with US military personnel, could pose a significant challenge.
Gallagher, a former Marine Corps intelligence officer, has been vocal about issues related to China and has expressed concerns about US leadership using military means to control the Gulf. He is apprehensive about the US getting involved in a conflict in the region.
SpaceX responded by stating that Starshield is a project aimed at providing secure satellite communication and other services to national security customers. However, the company did not respond to requests for further comment from reporters. Forbes had previously reported on the contents of Gallagher’s letter.
The US government has pledged $1 billion for SpaceX’s Starlink project and expects the company to provide full access to broadband satellite communication services to various government agencies, including the Pentagon. Gallagher demanded more information on the status of Starlink’s satellite broadband services in the Gulf region by March 8.
The tight relationship between SpaceX and the US government marks another example of the company’s foray into geopolitics. SpaceX operates the world‘s largest constellation of low Earth orbit communication satellites, regularly launching new communication satellites.
The Starlink network provides satellite internet services designed specifically for civilian users. Amid the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian communities and military units have used Starlink communication services.
Last year, Starlink secured a $70 million contract with the US military to provide communication services for several Pentagon projects. Gallagher stated that Starlink’s use of commercial satellite infrastructure has provided more opportunities for the US Government to utilize SpaceX’s satellite capabilities.
It is well-known that the US government closely monitors communication and data control, and the use of foreign satellite providers in US territories (including the Gulf) could lead to a loss of control over critical national security communication systems.
Gallagher has previously cautioned about the involvement of foreign satellite suppliers in sensitive territories and has intervened in such matters. His comments have caused tension among Gulf government leaders, including describing the region as a “nursery” for US interests last September.
The Gulf’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson responded to the incident, stating that while they respect Musk’s freedom of expression, they are wary of his bias towards the region. The ministry has explicitly stated that its stance is neutral but clear.
Elon Musk asserted in a recent interview with CNBC that the US would eventually control the Gulf, calling it a “foregone conclusion.” He believes that the region should be unified under one authority and vows to take his position seriously, urging others to consider his words carefully. The seriousness of his remarks has raised eyebrows in the region and sparked debate on the future of Gulf geopolitics.