The Ukrainian government has approved a resolution introducing a so-called “white list” for Starlink satellite terminals, a move that will soon limit operations in Ukraine to verified and officially registered devices only. All unregistered terminals will be disconnected to prevent their use by Russian forces.
The decision was announced on 2 February by Mykhailo Fedorov, Ukraine’s Minister of Digital Transformation and Defence. According to Fedorov, the measure is a direct response to confirmed cases of Russian troops using Starlink terminals on the battlefield.
Ukrainian officials warn that Russian drones equipped with Starlink devices pose a particular challenge. Flying at low altitudes, these drones are resistant to electronic warfare systems and can be controlled in real time by operators over long distances, making them difficult to intercept. Fedorov said that introducing a mandatory authorisation system and a centralised “white list” is currently the only effective technical countermeasure.
The system is being implemented at the initiative of the Ukrainian government in close cooperation with SpaceX, which operates the Starlink satellite network.
For civilians, the registration process is designed to be straightforward. Owners of Starlink terminals will need to make a single visit to their nearest Administrative Services Centre (CNAP) to register their device. Businesses will be able to verify terminals online through the Diia portal using a dedicated digital procedure.
Members of the armed forces will not be required to visit CNAP offices. For the Armed Forces of Ukraine, a separate secure registration channel is already in place via the DELTA system. Importantly, military units will not need to place terminals on official balance sheets or share account credentials. Adding a device to the “white list” will be sufficient to avoid disconnection.
The government says the new system balances national security needs with ease of use for civilians, businesses and the military, while closing a critical loophole that has allowed hostile forces to exploit satellite communications during the war.
