Starlink, Elon Musk’s private satellite venture, presents a unique challenge for the U.S. government. While the technology it offers is unparalleled, concerns arise due to Musk’s perceived unreliability and his control over the company’s operations. The United States has an urgent need for Starlink’s capabilities but not at the expense of its national security.

This dilemma is unprecedented for Washington. Unlike wealthy industrialists during World War I, Musk directly supplies his product to foreign countries and maintains personal control over its distribution and usage. This discretion has military and political implications, as the U.S. defense officials rely on Musk’s goodwill.

The situation becomes more apparent in Ukraine, where Starlink satellites have provided internet access and enabled satellite-guided drones for the military. However, Musk’s decision-making process and restrictions on equipment availability have come under scrutiny. The Defense Department even negotiated the purchase of new Starlink terminals to ensure direct control over their use by Ukrainian forces.

The concerns about reliance on Musk extend beyond Ukraine. His commercial holdings, such as Tesla, which operates in China, raise questions about potential entanglements. If Taiwan were invaded, would Musk cooperate with the U.S. and suffer financial losses by providing Starlink terminals to Taiwanese forces? Musk has already faced pressure from China about Starlink, resulting in its unavailability there.

One solution proposed is to invoke the Defense Production Act to regulate Starlink’s deliveries for the federal government. This could ensure a continuous flow of devices and connectivity for Ukraine’s forces. Additionally, the U.S. government could add language to the contract to place decisions in the hands of public officials rather than Musk.

Alternatively, nationalizing Starlink could provide more control over its operations. However, this approach would likely be met with resistance and could be acrimonious, messy, and not necessarily successful.

A more practical approach may be for the government to negotiate agreements with Starlink, aligning its interests with U.S. national security. Starlink could function more like a traditional military-contracting company with stipulations in the contracts to ensure compliance with U.S. objectives.

Ultimately, finding a balance between Starlink’s independence and its role in national security is crucial for the U.S. government.