As Elon Musk’s Starlink expands its critical presence in Ukraine, regulatory approval now paves the way for space-based texting services in a nation battling ongoing Russian telecommunications attacks.
Key Takeaways
- Ukrainian telecom giant Kyivstar has received regulatory approval to test Starlink’s satellite-based texting services, particularly targeting areas damaged by Russian strikes.
- The service aims to provide resilient communications in war-torn regions where traditional infrastructure has been compromised.
- Full commercial deployment of Starlink direct-to-cell service for standard mobile devices is planned for Q4 2025.
- VEON and Kyivstar are investing $1 billion in new telecom technologies in Ukraine from 2023 to 2027.
- Starlink has been a crucial communications lifeline in Ukraine since Russia’s 2022 invasion, supporting both civilian and military needs.
Space-Based Communications for a Nation Under Attack
In a significant development for Ukraine’s communications resilience, Kyivstar has secured regulatory approval to test space-enabled texting services using SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network. This initiative specifically targets regions where Russian military strikes have damaged or destroyed traditional communications infrastructure. The Ukrainian National Commission for the State Regulation of Electronic Communications, Radio Frequency Spectrum, and the Provision of Postal Services (NCEC) has authorized the testing, marking a crucial step toward maintaining connectivity throughout the conflict zone.
“In times of war, when communication and connectivity are essential humanitarian needs, VEON and Kyivstar are committed to investing in technologies that ensure connectivity for Ukraine and keep critical channels open,” said Kaan Terzioglu, VEON Group CEO. “With the integration of satellite constellations, we are further enhancing Ukraine’s connectivity.”
Testing Success and Implementation Timeline
The regulatory approval follows successful laboratory tests in the United States, where Kyivstar’s SIM cards were confirmed compatible with Starlink’s satellite network. Field testing will commence this summer in selected Ukrainian regions, initially focusing on text messaging services. The full commercial launch of Direct-to-Cell (D2C) services, including SMS and over-the-top messaging capabilities, is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025. Kyivstar has already allocated the necessary spectrum and is adapting its infrastructure to support the upcoming service deployment.
“Kyivstar remains at the forefront of ensuring Ukraine’s connectivity, especially during challenging times,” stated Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar. “This partnership with Starlink underscores our determination to provide uninterrupted communication to our customers, regardless of circumstances. Deployment of this technology highlights our commitment to innovation and service reliability.”
Starlink’s Expanding Role in Ukraine’s Defenses
Since Russia’s invasion in 2022, Starlink has played a vital role in maintaining communications in Ukraine. The satellite network has provided essential broadband services to both civilian populations and military operations when traditional infrastructure has been damaged or destroyed. SpaceX has already completed the first-generation deployment of Starlink satellites equipped with D2C payloads, currently offering messaging and emergency alerts in the United States and New Zealand. The expansion to Ukraine represents a critical enhancement of the country’s communications resilience in the face of ongoing warfare.
Strategic Investment in Ukraine’s Communications Future
Kyivstar, Ukraine’s largest digital operator with over 23 million mobile subscribers and 1.1 million home internet customers, is not stopping with this satellite initiative. Together with parent company VEON, they have committed to investing $1 billion in new telecommunications technologies throughout Ukraine from 2023 to 2027. This strategic investment aims to rebuild and enhance the nation’s communications infrastructure amid continuing wartime challenges. Additionally, Kyivstar has already contributed over 2 billion Ukrainian hryvnia to support various Ukrainian causes during the war.
VEON’s focus on Ukraine comes after the formerly Russia-based telecom operator exited the Russian market in 2022, shifting attention to Ukraine and other high-growth markets. This strategic pivot demonstrates international support for Ukraine’s communications infrastructure at a time when maintaining connections is crucial for both civilian safety and military coordination. The Starlink initiative represents the cutting edge of these efforts, leveraging space-based technology to overcome ground-based vulnerabilities and maintain Ukraine’s communications lifelines despite ongoing Russian attacks.
