Starlink successfully completed the first constellation for its “Direct to Cell” service in December, marking a significant milestone in its innovative space-based communication capabilities. This development was a crucial step in enhancing global connectivity and ensuring reliable communication services, particularly in regions facing challenges with terrestrial networks.
One notable achievement following this milestone was Kyivstar’s partnership deal with Starlink, which aimed to provide customers in Ukraine with access to the cutting-edge space-based cell service. This collaboration was especially significant given the ongoing conflict in the region, with Russia’s repeated attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure since the invasion in 2022.
As part of the agreement, Kyivstar customers would benefit from the ability to send text messages even in situations where the terrestrial network was compromised, offering a crucial lifeline during times of disruption. The partnership with Starlink would enable Ukraine to become one of the first countries to deploy this pioneering service, highlighting the importance of resilient and uninterrupted communication channels in today’s interconnected world.
Starlink’s “Direct to Cell” service was expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2025, with plans to introduce voice and data transmission services in the future. This service would not require additional hardware or software on users’ phones, provided they have 4G LTE capabilities, making it accessible and user-friendly for consumers.
The collaboration between Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, and Kyivstar reflected a strategic effort to leverage satellite technologies for enhancing mobile connectivity and ensuring communication continuity for the millions of mobile subscribers in Ukraine. The deployment of Starlink’s satellite-powered service would offer a reliable alternative for users, particularly in remote areas or during network disruptions.
In response to the conflict and challenges faced by Ukraine, Starlink had previously supplied thousands of Starlink kits to the country, enabling internet connectivity through portable terminals that directly received broadband connections from the satellite constellation. This deployment had proven crucial for Ukraine’s military operations, providing essential internet access in remote locations and underscoring the service’s significance as a frontline resource.
Kaan Terzioglu, the CEO of Veon Group, Kyivstar’s parent company, emphasized the strategic importance of the Starlink deal in enhancing service resilience through satellite technologies, benefiting the vast mobile subscriber base in Ukraine. The partnership with Starlink represented a forward-looking approach to addressing communication challenges and ensuring reliable connectivity for users in the region.
Further expanding its global reach, SpaceX, through Starlink, had secured partnerships with telecom companies worldwide for its direct-to-cell service, including collaborations with T-Mobile in the US and initiatives to offer free WiFi on flights in partnership with airlines. The increasing demand for reliable and high-speed internet services had led to a significant surge in global internet traffic from Starlink, as reported by IT service provider Cloudflare.
The completion of the first Starlink direct-to-cell satellite constellation underscored the company’s commitment to revolutionizing communication technologies and expanding access to reliable connectivity on a global scale. By leveraging innovative satellite technologies, Starlink aimed to address the evolving needs of.
