Kyivstar Group Ltd. has rolled out Starlink Direct‑to‑Cell satellite connectivity to every subscriber with a 4G LTE phone, offering free SMS service in areas where terrestrial coverage is absent. The new service uses SpaceX’s Starlink constellation to provide a virtual cell tower that connects directly to standard mobile devices, enabling basic messaging even when local infrastructure is damaged or offline.
The launch marks the first time a European operator has deployed this technology, positioning Kyivstar as a pioneer in resilient communications. The service is available at no additional cost to subscribers and is currently limited to SMS; voice and data are slated for rollout in 2026. Kyivstar has explicitly excluded occupied territories, border regions, and active combat zones from coverage, focusing on areas where civilian connectivity is most critical.
Kyivstar’s CEO Oleksandr Komarov emphasized the strategic importance of the move: “In Ukraine, staying connected means staying safe. By adding Direct‑to‑Cell, we are strengthening resilience for civilians and humanitarian operations in the hardest‑hit regions.” The company’s investment of $1 billion in Ukraine from 2023‑2027 underscores its commitment to infrastructure resilience amid ongoing conflict.
The service complements Kyivstar’s existing portfolio—mobile, fixed‑line, TV, e‑health, and ride‑hailing—by adding a satellite layer that can operate independently of damaged terrestrial networks. Analysts view the launch as a significant competitive advantage, noting that it could attract new users who require reliable communication in challenging environments and help retain existing customers during prolonged blackouts.
The introduction of satellite‑based connectivity also signals Kyivstar’s broader digital‑operator strategy, which aims to deliver end‑to‑end services across multiple verticals. By integrating Starlink Direct‑to‑Cell, the operator can maintain service continuity for critical communications, thereby reinforcing its market position and supporting Ukraine’s broader digital infrastructure goals.
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