Ukrainian company Kyivstar, the country’s largest mobile operator, successfully conducted a field test of Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell (D2C) satellite messaging technology, marking an important step in the development of its communications infrastructure.
The trial, conducted in the Zhytomyr region, involved Ukraine’s Minister of Digital Transformation, Mykhailo Fedorov, and Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov successfully exchanging text messages using standard 4G smartphones connected directly to Starlink satellites.
“This is an important step in the development of infrastructure that will provide access to communication even in places where traditional networks are absent,” said Fedorov. “Despite all the challenges of wartime, we continue to develop innovative solutions, because reliable communication under any circumstances and in any location is one of our key priorities.”
Komarov added, “This cutting-edge technology is a breakthrough for Ukraine as well as Kyivstar. We continue to invest in the most advanced technologies, not only to provide seamless services for Ukrainians today, but also to define the connectivity landscape of Ukraine for the future.”
Unlike traditional satellite communication devices, Starlink’s D2C service is compatible with standard 4G smartphones. This could allow for continued communication even if terrestrial networks are damaged or disrupted.
Kyivstar received regulatory approval for the testing in June 2025. The field trial was preceded by compatibility tests between Kyivstar SIM cards and Starlink’s satellites in U.S.-based labs. The messaging during the test was successful, confirming the system’s readiness for a potential future rollout.
Implications for Emergency Communications
The capability to send messages without cell towers has significant implications for emergency response. In areas where power grids have failed or telecom infrastructure has been targeted, D2C connectivity could provide a vital communication link. This technology could enable emergency responders to coordinate their efforts in zones without power and allow individuals to request assistance or stay connected to essential services if conventional networks are offline.
Ukraine’s adoption of satellite messaging reflects a global trend toward building resilient communications. In regions facing infrastructure challenges, reliable communication can be essential for various operational needs.
Global Landscape of Direct-to-Cell Connectivity
The successful test places Ukraine among a group of nations advancing in the satellite-to-cell sector. While T-Mobile launched a Starlink-powered text messaging service on July 23 and other countries like New Zealand and Canada are also developing similar partnerships, Ukraine has completed a notable real-world deployment.
The commercial rollout of messaging services is anticipated to start in the fourth quarter of 2025, with full mobile broadband access to follow by early 2026. VEON, the parent company to Kyivstar, has also indicated it is in discussions with other low-Earth orbit (LEO) providers, such as Amazon’s Project Kuiper, for future expansion.
This initiative highlights a growing global focus on how nations are planning for communications resilience. Satellite-based phone services may soon supplement or replace terrestrial networks in both remote areas and regions with challenged infrastructure.
D2C messaging could enhance preparedness, improve connectivity in rural areas, and provide a model for other governments managing digital infrastructure.
With the successful completion of this test, Ukraine has demonstrated that future mobile communication may not be entirely dependent on ground-based towers.
