- Kyivstar has successfully integrated its mobile network with Starlink's Direct-to-Cell service.
- Testing has received regulatory approval from Ukraine's NCEC.
- Commercial launch planned for Q4 2025 to enhance connectivity in rural and affected areas.
VEON Ltd. (VEON, Financial), a global digital operator, has announced a key advancement from its Ukrainian subsidiary, Kyivstar, in the integration of Direct-to-Cell (D2C) services with Starlink's satellite network. This achievement follows successful SIM card compatibility testing in the United States and regulatory approval from Ukraine's National Commission for the State Regulation of Electronic Communications (NCEC) for field testing.
The planned launch of D2C services, set for Q4 2025, will initially support SMS and over-the-top (OTT) messaging services. This initiative aims to bolster connectivity particularly in regions suffering infrastructure damage, rural areas, and during emergencies. Field testing is slated to commence this summer in select regions of Ukraine, demonstrating Kyivstar's commitment to providing uninterrupted communication services.
To support this endeavor, Kyivstar has allocated the necessary spectrum and is finalizing infrastructure preparations for full integration. Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar, highlighted the strategic importance of this development, emphasizing the resilience it brings to Ukraine's telecommunications in challenging times.
This strategic integration is also seen as a significant move for VEON in enhancing connectivity resilience in a country where approximately 20% of telecommunications infrastructure has been impacted by conflict. By combining terrestrial and satellite technologies, Kyivstar is positioning itself as a pioneering force in the telecommunications sector, offering a robust solution for critical connectivity needs during infrastructure disruptions.
