Starlink Begins Europe’s First Direct-To-Cell Service In Ukraine

Ukraine has become the first country in Europe to activate Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite service, launched through a partnership between Kyivstar and global telecom group Veon. The rollout aims to keep millions connected amid prolonged wartime blackouts and damaged infrastructure, beginning with SMS services and expanding to voice and data capabilities next year.

Kyivstar Partners With Starlink For Satellite Connectivity

Kyivstar, Ukraine’s largest mobile operator with over 22 million subscribers, has introduced the technology to support uninterrupted communication during power outages and in regions where terrestrial networks remain disrupted. The operator stated that the service strengthens national connectivity at a time when communication often becomes a critical element of public safety.

Support During Blackouts And Conflict

The direct-to-cell service allows users with standard 4G smartphones to stay connected without relying on ground-based towers. It is designed to function during extended electricity cuts, in recently liberated areas where mobile infrastructure is still being restored, and during humanitarian or rescue operations. Kyivstar has already installed batteries and generators to maintain more than ten hours of backup coverage across its network.

Technology And Wartime Importance

Starlink’s direct-to-cell system enables signals from low-Earth orbit satellites to connect directly with mobile devices, bypassing conventional network limitations. As Russian strikes continue to target Ukraine’s energy and telecom infrastructure, the service provides an additional layer of resilience. Ukraine’s armed forces already depend on more than 50,000 Starlink terminals for battlefield communications and drone operations.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Ukraine is the first European country to launch Starlink’s direct-to-cell service.
• The service begins with SMS and will expand to voice and data in 2026.
• Kyivstar serves around 22.5 million mobile users in Ukraine.
• Direct-to-cell technology connects standard smartphones directly to satellites.

Strengthening Communication Infrastructure

The collaboration between Starlink and Kyivstar aims to ensure continuous connectivity as the war enters its fourth year. With attacks repeatedly damaging power grids and telecom systems, the satellite-based service offers a crucial communication lifeline and reinforces Ukraine’s broader efforts to maintain civilian and defence networks under challenging conditions.