Ukraine will be the first country in Europe where Starlink-based mobile communication services will appear. The launch of messaging is planned by the end of this year, and the provision of mobile satellite broadband Internet access – in mid-2026. This was stated by the general director of “Kyivstar” Oleksandr Komarov. informs Reuters.
At this time, field tests are already underway within the framework of the agreement concluded at the end of 2024 with SpaceX. Communication will be carried out through satellites equipped with special modems. They will work like cell towers, transmitting a signal directly from orbit to users’ smartphones.
“The first phase is OTT messaging, which means messaging through WhatsApp, Signal and other systems. And probably in early 2026, let’s be safe, in the second quarter of 2026, we will be able to offer mobile satellite broadband data and voice.” – explained the director of “Kyivstar”.
Komarov also noted that the telecommunications infrastructure of Ukraine demonstrates high stability, despite the recent escalation of attacks by Russia. Last year, strikes on energy infrastructure led to daily blackouts in major cities and knocked out about half of the country’s generating capacity.
“I think we’re much more resilient than we were in 2022. We can now provide up to 10 hours of uninterrupted fixed and mobile services during blackouts, even nationwide ones.”, – added Komarov.
