Starlink Direct-to-Cell Service Launches in Ukraine | Europe’s First Satellite-to-Phone Network Goes Live

Starlink Launches Direct-to-Cell Service in Ukraine — A New Era of Emergency Connectivity

Ukraine has taken a major step forward in digital communication as Kyivstar, the country’s largest mobile operator, officially launched Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell satellite service on 24 November 2025. This marks Europe’s first commercial rollout of this technology, enabling standard 4G smartphones to connect directly to Starlink satellites without any additional devices. The launch comes at a critical time, especially for communities affected by the ongoing war, where mobile infrastructure remains vulnerable and often disrupted.

With frequent power outages and network failures across Ukraine, the introduction of Direct-to-Cell technology offers a lifeline for citizens, emergency responders, and humanitarian teams. Kyivstar has also enhanced its network resilience by installing additional generators and backup batteries, ensuring at least ten hours of uninterrupted connectivity even during blackouts.

In its initial phase, the satellite service supports SMS messaging, with plans to expand to voice calls and mobile data soon. This upgrade is expected to transform communication reliability for individuals living in remote, conflict-hit, or infrastructure-damaged regions.

Kyivstar has rolled out nationwide testing of the service, excluding border areas and active front-line zones due to security restrictions. The National Communication Commission of Ukraine approved the testing, emphasizing the need to protect existing mobile frequencies and avoid network interference.

Earlier in August 2025, Kyivstar engineers and Digital Transformation Minister Mykhailo Fedorov successfully exchanged messages via Starlink satellites using standard 4G phones during a field test. This breakthrough demonstrated the practicality of Direct-to-Cell technology and accelerated its national implementation.

Looking ahead, Starlink and Kyivstar plan to introduce satellite mobile broadband by mid-2026, which will deliver uninterrupted internet access to millions of users. This advancement is particularly crucial for war-affected areas where terrestrial infrastructure has been destroyed or remains unstable.

Ultimately, the launch of Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell service is more than a technological upgrade—it represents a vital step toward strengthening Ukraine’s digital resilience. As the country continues to navigate conflict and recovery, this innovation promises secure, reliable, and accessible communication, laying the foundation for a more connected and digitally secure future.