Ukraine’s leading telecom operator Kyivstar has signed an agreement with SpaceX’s Starlink to introduce direct-to-cell satellite services.
The agreement, announced on December 30, 2024, signifies a major step for Ukraine’s telecommunications sector. Starlink Direct-To-Cell (DTC) technology, facilitated by satellites capable of transmitting signals directly to mobile devices, promises uninterrupted communication even in the most remote or war-affected areas.
This partnership comes as part of Kyivstar’s broader ambition to provide resilient nationwide coverage, extending connectivity to regions frequently disrupted by blackouts and cyberattacks.
Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov called the agreement a historic moment for the nation’s telecom industry. “This development has the potential to redefine Ukraine’s digital landscape and secure our place in the history books of telecommunications. Direct-to-cell services ensure that even in the absence of traditional terrestrial networks, Ukrainians can stay connected,” Komarov said. (via KyivIndependent)
While the agreement was announced today, the rollout of messaging services is slated for the fourth quarter of 2025, with voice and data services to follow.
Since the onset of the war in 2022, Starlink has been pivotal in maintaining Ukraine’s communication channels, supporting both military operations and civilian needs. Currently, more than 42,000 Starlink terminals operate across Ukraine, providing connectivity to the armed forces, healthcare facilities, and humanitarian organizations.
Earlier this month New Zealand’s One NZ became the first carrier in the world to launch DTC services. T-Mobile in the US is still testing the service ahead of its official launch, while in Canada, Rogers is also conducting testing while the company waits for regulatory approval from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
