Starlink Direct-to-Cell Satellite Connectivity in Ukraine

planned

Kyivstar, Ukraine's largest mobile operator, successfully conducted the first field test of Starlink's direct-to-cell satellite technology in the Zhytomyr region. This technology provides reliable connectivity when terrestrial networks are unavailable, crucial for Ukraine where infrastructure is often damaged due to conflict. The service uses satellites equipped with cellular modems that act like cell towers in space, beaming signals directly to smartphones. Kyivstar and Starlink plan to commercially launch this connectivity in Q4 2025, starting with messaging services, with mobile satellite broadband data available to a wider audience in early 2026.