Japan Self-Defence Forces Trial Starlink Internet Service for Maritime Crew

The Japan Self-Defence Forces (SDF) have recently commenced a trial of the Starlink satellite internet service; to grant the maritime branch's deployed crew access to the internet for personal use. This initiative, marks a significant step in enhancing the living conditions for personnel on long missions.

Two Maritime Self-Defence Force (MSDF) training ships, the Kashima and the Shimakaze, have been outfitted with Starlink antennas. These antennas connect with over 6,000 low-orbit satellites, facilitating high-speed internet access for smartphones and other web-enabled devices even in remote areas. This connectivity offers substantial improvements over the current system, where most crew members can only send emails twice per day to pre-registered recipients.

The MSDF plans to extend the Starlink system to approximately 90 percent of its surface vessels within the next three years. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to attract young recruits by providing modern amenities such as internet access during off-duty hours. The availability of high-speed internet is seen as a valuable perk, particularly for personnel on extended deployments.

Starlink's current service's data-downloading speed can reach up to 220 megabits per second and is expected to improve over coming months and years as SpaceX deploys more sats into orbit. This capacity allows several connected devices to stream video simultaneously, significantly enhancing onboard communication and entertainment options.

The ongoing trial began last month and involves a comprehensive evaluation of the service’s communications capacity at sea, the durability of the related equipment, and the feasibility of adopting Starlink for official operations. Despite the potential benefits, the use of a private company's service in official military operations does come with risks.

The MSDF had been contemplating the introduction of Starlink since SpaceX launched the service for maritime customers in July of the previous year. This move comes at a time when Japan's SDF are encountering increasing security challenges from China’s military expansion and North Korea’s missile and nuclear activities. Additionally, Japan's low birthrate has complicated efforts to recruit new personnel, making attractive benefits like reliable internet access more critical.

During their 175-day training mission, the Kashima and the Shimakaze are scheduled to visit 11 countries, including South Africa, Italy, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Approximately 570 people are aboard these vessels, including around 190 MSDF officer candidates. This international tour will provide ample opportunities to test and showcase the Starlink system's capabilities in various environments.

The trial of Starlink internet service represents a significant modernization effort by the MSDF, aiming to enhance the quality of life for its crew and maintain its appeal to potential recruits amid growing security and demographic challenges.