Italy's Starlink Experiment: Embassies Become Testing Grounds for Encrypted Communications

Italy has installed Starlink antennas in four embassies to test encrypted communication capabilities. The government aims to ensure secure transmissions in dangerous regions but faces criticism over talks with Elon Musk's company. No official contract has been signed, and negotiations with other satellite operators continue.

Italy has embarked on a technological trial by installing Starlink antennas in four of its embassies worldwide, according to a minister's announcement on Thursday. Despite the installations, the government has not formalized a national security contract with Elon Musk's enterprise.

In a bid to ensure secure communications for government and defense officials in precarious regions, Italy's right-wing administration is evaluating Starlink's capabilities. Meanwhile, the opposition has expressed concerns over entrusting a critical security function to a foreign company linked to former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Minister Luca Ciriani clarified to the Senate that the Starlink systems are only activated for testing purposes and do not handle classified information. Talks with other operators like Eutelsat are ongoing as Italy considers a substantial investment to upgrade its secure communication systems.

(With inputs from agencies.)