Kyivstar to Launch Starlink Direct to Cell: Satellite Connectivity in Every Smartphone.

The Ukrainian mobile operator Kyivstar has signed an agreement with Starlink to implement the Direct to Cell satellite communication technology in Ukraine. This was announced by Kyivstar's parent company, VEON Ltd. Thanks to this agreement, starting from the fourth quarter of 2025, the Ukrainian population will have access to the Starlink Direct to Cell service. First of all, users will be able to exchange SMS and OTT messages, followed by voice communication and data transmission.

VEON Group CEO Kaan Terzioglu highlighted the company's significant commitment to Ukraine demonstrated by this partnership. He also noted that satellite technologies will improve telecommunications services and ensure their resilience. Kyivstar's head Oleksandr Komarov emphasized that cooperation with Starlink will be an important step towards achieving the goal of '4G everywhere' and providing connectivity for every Ukrainian.

The cost of the project and its implementation were not specified by the parties involved in the agreement. However, it is worth noting that Kyivstar is already investing funds in expanding its 4G network and addressing power supply issues. The Starlink Direct to Cell technology will allow the operator's subscribers to maintain connectivity even without ground infrastructure.

VEON has committed to invest 1 billion dollars in the restoration of digital infrastructure in Ukraine from 2023 to 2027. This is another confirmation of VEON's interest in developing the Ukrainian market. The Starlink Direct to Cell technology operates using an eNodeB modem on a satellite, which functions as a space cell tower and does not require modifications to hardware or special software.