Ukraine pioneers Starlink satellite-to-phone network
Starlink’s direct-to-cell system passed its first Ukrainian trial, offering a solution to keep mobile services running when attacks or geography disrupt terrestrial networks.
Ukraine has completed its first successful field test of Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology, marking a breakthrough for mobile connectivity in Eastern Europe.
The trial, carried out by the country’s largest mobile operator Kyivstar in the Zhytomyr region, saw CEO Oleksandr Komarov and Ukraine’s digital transformation minister Mykhailo Fedorov exchange messages using standard smartphones.
The system connects directly to phones via satellites equipped with advanced cellular modems, functioning like cell towers in space.
The technology is designed to keep communications running when terrestrial networks are damaged or inaccessible.
Telecom companies worldwide are exploring satellite-based solutions to remove coverage gaps instead of relying solely on costly or impractical land-based networks.
Starlink, owned by SpaceX, has already signed direct-to-cell service deals in 10 countries, with Kyivstar set to be the first European operator to adopt it.
A commercial rollout in Ukraine is planned for late 2025, starting with messaging. Broader mobile satellite broadband access is expected in early 2026.
Kyivstar’s parent company, VEON, is also discussing with other providers, such as Amazon’s Project Kuiper, the extension of similar services beyond Ukraine.
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