Midweek check-in: It’s Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Here’s your must-read briefing on defense and global affairs.

SpaceX Deploys Starlink to Upgrade US Air Traffic System

SpaceX, led by Elon Musk, is working to deploy Starlink satellite terminals to upgrade the US Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) air traffic control network, potentially affecting Verizon’s existing $2 billion contract for the project.

Musk recently approved a shipment of 4,000 Starlink terminals, with one already installed at an FAA testing facility in Atlantic City.

The FAA confirmed testing Starlink at select sites, including remote locations in Alaska, where it could enhance weather data connectivity.

However, concerns about conflicts of interest arise due to Musk’s growing influence in federal agencies, including the FAA, which also regulates SpaceX launches.