# Starshield

Starlink’s Rise: How Musk’s Satellite Network Became a Geopolitical Weapon — and a Cash Cow

Starlink has moved from commercial broadband provider to an instrument of geopolitical influence, supported by billions in U.S. government contracts and explosive subscriber growth that helped lift SpaceX’s valuation to roughly $800bn by end‑2025. Its dual civilian‑military business model, technical dominance and growing role in conflict zones pose fresh political and regulatory dilemmas for states and markets.