Clandestine Network Smuggles Starlink Tech Into Iran to Beat Internet Blackout

A secret network of Iranian expatriates is smuggling Starlink satellite internet terminals — made by Elon Musk’s SpaceX — into Iran to help citizens break through the government’s sweeping internet blockade, the BBC has reported.

Iran in “Digital Darkness” for Over Two Months

Iran’s government has maintained one of the longest-running national internet shutdowns ever recorded since the US and Israel launched airstrikes on February 28, 2026. Before that, Iran had imposed a previous shutdown in January during a deadly regime crackdown on nationwide protests — which the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says killed over 6,500 people and led to 53,000 arrests.

Iranian officials have said the wartime blackout is for security reasons, aimed at preventing surveillance, espionage, and cyber-attacks.

“If Even One Extra Person Can Access the Internet, It’s Worth It”

An Iranian man using the name Sahand told the BBC he is part of a clandestine network smuggling satellite internet technology into Iran — a practice that is illegal in the country.

“If even one extra person is able to access the internet, I think it’s successful and it’s worth it,” Sahand said. He fears for family members and contacts inside the country: “If I was identified by the Iranian regime, they might make those I’m in touch with in Iran pay the price.”

Sahand says Starlink devices are one of the most reliable ways of bypassing the internet blackout. The white, flat terminals paired with routers provide internet access by connecting to SpaceX’s satellite network, allowing users to completely bypass Iran’s heavily controlled domestic internet.

According to Sahand, several people can connect to each terminal simultaneously. He says he has sent a dozen terminals to Iran since January and “we are actively looking for other ways to smuggle in more.”

The Iranian government passed legislation last year making the use, purchase, or sale of Starlink devices punishable by up to two years in prison. Distributing or importing more than 10 devices carries a sentence of up to 10 years.

State-affiliated media has reported multiple arrests, including four people — two of them foreign nationals — detained last month for “importing satellite internet equipment.” Some cases have also included accusations of possessing illegal weapons and sending information to the enemy.

Underground Market Thrives

Despite the harsh penalties, the market for Starlink terminals in Iran continues. A public Persian-language Telegram channel called NasNet operates as one such marketplace.

A volunteer involved with the channel from outside Iran told the BBC that approximately 5,000 Starlink terminals have been sold through it over the past two and a half years. The human rights organisation Witness estimated in January that there are at least 50,000 Starlink terminals in Iran, and activists say the number has likely grown.

Source: BBC News - The clandestine network smuggling Starlink tech into Iran to beat internet blackout