Clandestine Network Smuggles Starlink Terminals Into Iran to Bypass Blackouts

Smuggling Operations

A clandestine network is smuggling SpaceX Starlink satellite terminals into Iran to provide citizens with internet access during government-imposed blackouts. A member of the network, identified as Sahand, told the BBC World Service that he sends these terminals into the country to help show "the real picture".

Sahand described the process of acquiring the devices and moving them across borders as a "very complex operation," though he declined to provide specific details on the logistics. The hardware consists of white, flat terminals paired with routers that connect to SpaceX's satellite constellation, allowing users to completely bypass Iran's heavily controlled domestic internet infrastructure. According to Sahand, multiple people can connect to a single terminal simultaneously.

State Crackdown and Risks

The Iranian government has responded to the presence of these terminals with a "multi-front assault". Authorities have targeted both the SpaceX system itself and the individuals possessing the smuggled hardware. The state has publicized the potential for death sentences to await those arrested with the devices.

Reports indicate that the risks associated with using this technology can be fatal. One report detailed the death of a father, Alaeddin, who was fatally beaten for using Starlink during a web blackout. His body was reportedly confiscated by authorities and not returned to his family until they agreed not to speak about the incident.

Context of Internet Censorship

Iran's government has utilized digital blockades to tighten control over its citizens, which has simultaneously harmed the local economy and fueled public anger. The regime has banned the American satellite system Starlink as of last year. State media routinely reports on the arrests of citizens for using illegal VPNs or Starlink hardware.

These restrictions have created a tiered system of internet access. While political leaders and figures close to the regime are granted "white SIM cards" for unfettered access, ordinary citizens must rely on expensive and advanced VPNs or smuggled Starlink terminals to circumvent restrictions.

Timeline of Blackouts

Internet restrictions have been used strategically during periods of unrest. Authorities initially imposed a nationwide internet blackout on January 8 amid anti-government protests, which preceded a crackdown in which thousands or tens of thousands were killed. While connections briefly returned to normal in February, subsequent blackouts were initiated.

According to reports, the Iranian leadership became particularly alarmed when citizens were able to follow conflicts in real-time via satellite-captured photographs, leading to increased efforts to disable the broadband-beaming capabilities of the Starlink system.