As part of a global strategy that uses technology as a tool for political pressure, the illegal operation of Starlink satellites in Cuba constitutes a new attempt at foreign interference, aimed at undermining the country’s sociopolitical stability. This scheme, driven by billionaire Elon Musk and backed by interventionist policies of former President Donald Trump, seeks to use internet access as a catalyst to foment social unrest and force a regime change.
The growing demand for satellite services has transformed Earth’s orbit into a strategic space where political and economic battles are waged. With over 10,000 active satellites, two-thirds belong to the Starlink constellation, operated by SpaceX. Although these satellites promise global connectivity, their unauthorized use in sovereign countries like Cuba reveals intentions that go beyond technology.
Access to the internet via illegal Starlink terminals poses a danger to the country’s internal stability. This service could facilitate disinformation campaigns, media manipulation, and coordination of subversive activities, designed to erode the Cuban sociopolitical system. In this context, it is evident that satellite technology has become a key tool within the scheme of subversion against Cuba.
Legal and International Violations
According to the Technical Budgeted Unit of the Radioelectric Spectrum (UPTCER), Starlink’s operations in Cuba violate multiple international and national regulations, including:
Illegal Use of the Radioelectric Spectrum
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recognizes national sovereignty over the radioelectric spectrum. Starlink operates in the Ku/Ka bands without prior coordination with Cuban authorities, exposing the country to technical and legal risks.
Lack of Operating License
SpaceX does not have authorization from the Ministry of Communications nor has it notified the ITU of its intentions. This non-compliance is similar to the case that occurred in Iran in 2022, where the ITU backed the Iranian government against Starlink’s illegal operations.
Violation of Cuban Law
Resolution 272/2015 prohibits the import and operation of satellite equipment without state permission. Starlink terminals are classified as illegal stations, which reinforces the Cuban government’s right to block these activities.
The unauthorized use of Starlink has serious implications for users and for SpaceX. For the former, it would imply government blocking of frequencies, fines, confiscation of equipment, and legal sanctions. In turn, the corporation could be subject to a symbolic resolution by the ITU condemning its actions, in addition to the international damage to its reputation, which could limit its future operations.
Technological Defense: A Sovereign Right
The uncontrolled proliferation of satellites like Starlink not only threatens technological sovereignty but also orbital balance. With global plans to launch up to 60,000 new satellites in the coming years, the risk of Kessler syndrome—a destructive cascade caused by orbital collisions—becomes increasingly real. This scenario could render strategic regions of space unusable and exacerbate existing problems related to space debris.
Cuba has international backing to protect its radioelectric spectrum and demand the immediate cessation of unauthorized operations. Technological sovereignty is a strategic resource that must be defended against external hegemonic attempts that seek to destabilize the country.
The Starlink case exemplifies how large technology corporations act as instruments within broader interventionist schemes. In this context, Cuba reaffirms its commitment to defending its technological integrity and avoiding any form of external interference.
The struggle to preserve our technological sovereignty is also a struggle for our political and social independence. In the face of subversive attempts disguised under technological promises, Cuba responds firmly: our sovereignty is not for sale.
