Specialty Network SLLC – Ukraine’s leading telecom operator, Kyivstar, has joined forces with Elon Musk’s Starlink to launch Space-Powered Networks, a game-changing innovation set to roll out in 2025. This groundbreaking partnership, announced by Kyivstar’s parent company VEON, aims to transform Ukraine’s mobile connectivity landscape, offering messaging services first, followed by voice and data capabilities in subsequent phases.
For those unfamiliar, Space-Powered Networks is exactly what it sounds like—satellites equipped with special modems act as cellphone towers in space, directly connecting to smartphones without relying on traditional ground infrastructure. This means better coverage, enhanced reliability, and the ability to stay connected even in remote or conflict-ridden areas.
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Starlink has already proven its worth in Ukraine, providing critical internet access to both civilians and military forces amid the ongoing conflict. With direct-to-cell technology, Kyivstar is taking connectivity to the next level, ensuring reliable communication even in areas where ground-based infrastructure is damaged or compromised.
With this partnership, Ukraine becomes one of the first countries globally to adopt direct-to-cell technology. It also makes Ukraine the first conflict zone to implement such advanced mobile solutions, showcasing the nation’s resilience and commitment to technological advancement.
Direct-to-cell connectivity doesn’t just improve civilian access to mobile networks. It also strengthens Ukraine’s emergency response systems and military communications, enabling secure and uninterrupted channels in the most challenging conditions.
Unlike traditional mobile networks, which depend on land-based cell towers, Space-Powered Networks bypasses the ground entirely. Here’s how it works:
Starlink has been busy building its Space-Powered Networks capabilities around the world. Earlier this year, the company launched its first satellites with this innovative technology. Deals have already been struck in the U.S., Japan, New Zealand, and several other countries.
Ukraine, however, stands out for two key reasons:
Despite its promise, deploying Space-Powered Networks in Ukraine won’t come without challenges. Since 2022, Russia has intensified its efforts to jam signals between Starlink satellites and ground terminals, creating significant obstacles for seamless connectivity.
However, Starlink’s track record of maintaining reliable internet services even under these conditions suggests that it’s well-equipped to tackle such challenges. The introduction of direct-to-cell technology adds another layer of resilience to Ukraine’s communication infrastructure.
The rollout will begin with messaging services in the fourth quarter of 2025, followed by voice and data features in later phases. While financial terms of the partnership haven’t been disclosed, the technological and societal benefits are clear.
This collaboration signifies a bold step forward for Ukraine, demonstrating how innovation can thrive even amid adversity. As Elon Musk deepens his involvement in global telecom and Ukraine’s strategic initiatives, the world will be watching how this partnership unfolds.
Kyivstar and Starlink’s partnership isn’t just about technology—it’s about resilience, innovation, and the power of connectivity. By bringing Space-Powered Networks capabilities to Ukraine, this collaboration is setting a new benchmark for mobile networks, proving that even in times of crisis, progress is possible.
As 2025 approaches, this initiative has the potential to transform not only Ukraine’s telecom landscape but also set a precedent for other nations exploring similar solutions. The future of connectivity is here, and it’s starting in Ukraine.
