Thursday, October 15, 2026 -Bulgarian authorities are investigating a suspected arson attack on a Starlink satellite communications station near Sofia after 11 of its 17 antennas were reportedly damaged by fire.
The incident, reported on October 14, 2026, has raised security concerns because the facility provides connectivity through SpaceX’s satellite network, which is also used by Ukraine’s military. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev confirmed that an investigation was underway, describing the inquiry as intensive while declining to disclose further details.
According to Bulgarian opposition lawmaker Ivaylo Mirchev, two masked individuals entered the facility and set fire to the antennas. The station is believed to be the Plana Earth Station, located approximately 20 kilometres south of Sofia.
Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the incident, including how the perpetrators gained access to the site. However, authorities have not publicly identified the suspects or confirmed who may have organised the attack. Claims of possible Russian involvement remain unproven.
The incident comes amid growing concerns about the security of communications infrastructure supporting Ukraine and its European partners. A similar fire damaged a Starlink ground station in Poland in September, prompting Polish officials to investigate suspected sabotage.
With satellite communications playing an important role in civilian connectivity and military coordination, the Bulgarian investigation could have wider implications for regional security.
Authorities are now under pressure to establish responsibility, strengthen protection around critical infrastructure and determine whether the fire was an isolated criminal act or part of a broader campaign targeting communications networks.
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