Italy to Retain Data Control in Potential Starlink Deal

Italy will have full control over its data under any potential agreement with Elon Musk’s Starlink for secure satellite communications, according to Andrea Stroppa, an adviser to Musk’s aerospace businesses. The proposed partnership aims to provide encrypted communication for Italian government, diplomats, and defense officials in high-risk areas.

The project has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who question whether sensitive communications should rely on a U.S. billionaire’s company. Starlink, a division of SpaceX, operates 6,700 low-Earth orbit satellites and is a leader in satellite communications.

Discussions are underway for a five-year contract valued at €1.5 billion ($1.6 billion), according to sources familiar with the matter. Stroppa emphasized that the agreement would ensure data remains fully under the control of Italian institutions, allowing them to leverage U.S. technology while safeguarding national interests.

The talks reportedly began before Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s administration took office in October 2022. Meloni, known for her positive rapport with Musk, dismissed concerns about potential bias in evaluating the project, stating that such relationships would not influence the decision-making process.

The proposed deal highlights Italy’s strategic interest in enhancing secure communications, though it faces political scrutiny over entrusting critical operations to a foreign-owned entity.

Related news: https://airguide.info/?s=A330

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, etc