Italy is considering a deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink for secure satellite communications, with a strong emphasis on maintaining full control over its data. The potential five-year agreement, valued at 1.5 billion euros ($1.6 billion), would provide encrypted communications for Italy’s government, diplomats, and defense personnel in sensitive and high-risk areas.
The move has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who question whether Italy should rely on a company owned by U.S. billionaire Elon Musk for handling such critical communications. Starlink, a subsidiary of Musk’s SpaceX aerospace business, operates 6,700 active satellites in low-Earth orbit, positioning it as a leading player in satellite telecommunications.
Andrea Stroppa, an adviser for Musk’s aerospace ventures, reassured the public during an interview with Italian state broadcaster RAI, stating that Italian institutions would retain full control over their data. He emphasized that while the technology would be provided by a U.S.-owned company, Italy’s national interests would be safeguarded. The discussions began before Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni assumed office in October 2022.
Meloni, who has a well-documented positive relationship with Musk, dismissed concerns raised by opposition leaders, assuring that the government’s evaluation of the project would remain impartial.