What Happened: Kyivstar has signed an agreement with Starlink to offer satellite connectivity, protecting telecom infrastructure from Russian attacks. This partnership will allow Kyivstar users to access space-based connectivity when the terrestrial network is compromised, Bloomberg reported on Monday.

Starlink’s portable terminals have become crucial for Ukraine’s military and civilian communications, providing high-speed broadband internet. Earlier this year, SpaceX, Starlink’s parent company, launched its first satellites to offer direct-to-cell service. The Federal Communications Commission in the U.S. recently approved SpaceX to provide some mobile phone coverage. The company has also partnered with T-Mobile US Inc. (NASDAQ:TMUS) to reach customers in areas lacking coverage.

Why It Matters: The partnership between Starlink and Kyivstar is a significant development in Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to maintain connectivity amid the conflict with Russia. Recently, Ukraine received 150 Starlink units from Poland, underscoring the importance of satellite technology in restoring communication in liberated regions. However, Musk has expressed concerns about the financial sustainability of providing these services for free.

Additionally, Russian state-backed hackers have targeted Ukrainian military devices using Starlink connections, highlighting the strategic importance of secure communications. To bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities, SpaceX secured a Pentagon contract to extend Ukraine’s access to Starshield, a government-focused version of Starlink, further emphasizing the critical role of satellite technology in national security.

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