TechnologyGlobal issues

Starlink satellite system shaping modern warfare

01:58

This browser does not support the video element.

May 16, 2025

Starlink provides Ukraine with high-speed internet — vital for communication and drone operations. But control over the system lies with Elon Musk. How risky is that?

Advertisement

Skip next section Explore more

Explore more

Cyberwar: The Invisible Weapons

Wars are fought both openly and in the shadows—especially in cyberspace. Cyberattacks can seriously affect civilians and influence politics. They’re anything but harmless.   

How do drones shape the war in Ukraine?

Global military spending is rising—but low-cost drones are reshaping warfare. In its defense against Russian aggression, Ukraine is heavily relying on this technology. There are several reasons why.

Autonomous Weapons: Machines Decide Over Life and Death

Drones that attack on their own, robotic vehicles in combat—autonomous weapons are taking on more tasks. For now, humans have the final say. But how much longer will that be the case?

Drones and AI: How Technology is Changing Warfare

Drones, artificial intelligence, and robots are playing an increasingly important role in warfare. New technologies are transforming weapons systems and what happens on the battlefield.

Skip next section DW's Top Story

DW's Top Story

Nir Oz survivors grapple with memories of October 7 attack

Amit Siman Tov lost her mother, her brother and his family. Three years on she is fighting to preserve their memory.

Gaza's children bear lasting scars three years into war

Israel has faced a mental health crisis in wake of October 7

Israel marks October 7 anniversary as national memorial day

Skip next section More stories from DW

More stories from DW

Africa

Ethiopia: Abiy begins new term as regional tensions mount

Abiy must contend with a regional alliance opposing him and a Tigray conflict that could spill over into Eritrea.

More from Africa

Asia

Southeast Asia's haze crisis: Have lessons been learned?

Eleven years after catastrophic fires prompted promises of tougher action, Southeast Asia is again choking on haze.

Germany

2036 Olympics: Munich up against at least six rivals

The IOC has revealed the seven countries intending to bid for the 2036 Olympics. Germany, with Munich, is among them.

More from Germany

Europe

Where is Spain headed after the snap election announcement?

The housing crisis, migration and the rise of the right-wing populist Vox party are likely to dominate the campaign.

More from Europe

Middle East

Iran's regime raises social cost for women defying hijab

Focus is shifting from "morality police" street enforcement towards social pressure in services and businesses.

More from Middle East

North America

Separatists win Quebec local elections

Quebec voters have just elected a party that wants independence. But could Quebec really leave Canada?

More from North America

Latin America

Brazil election: Lula faces Flavio Bolsonaro in runoff

Brazil heads to a runoff as Lula faces Flavio Bolsonaro in a high-stakes presidential race.

More from Latin America

Advertisement