SpaceX Raises Starlink Connectivity Cost for Pentagon Drones to $25,000 per Month

According to Reuters, SpaceX increased the monthly Starlink connectivity cost for Pentagon drones to $25,000, a five-fold increase from prior rates. The Pentagon was forced to accept the higher fees. The two parties have also clashed over pricing for Starlink's Direct-to-Cell service, which aims to help Iranian civilians bypass internet restrictions.

No alternative provider currently offers comparable capabilities to Starlink, giving SpaceX significant leverage in negotiations with the U.S. government.