Poland extends funding for Starlink terminals in Ukraine
Poland will continue funding Starlink terminals in Ukraine (photo: Getty Images)
Polish President Karol Nawrocki has signed a law providing for the continued funding of Starlink terminals in Ukraine, according to a post by Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Mykhailo Fedorov.
"In times of war, this technology is critically important to keep hospitals, schools, critical infrastructure, and frontline regions connected," he emphasized.
According to Fedorov, more than 50,000 Starlink terminals are currently operational in Ukraine, with over 29,000 provided by Polish partners.
"I thank Poland's Minister of Digital Affairs Krzysztof Gawkowski and the entire Polish government for their solidarity and steadfast support of Ukraine," the deputy prime minister wrote.
In October, Kyivstar will begin beta testing the Starlink Direct-to-Cell technology. It will function as a cell tower in space, providing connectivity in any location with an open sky that is difficult to reach.
Initially, the service will be available to Android smartphone users. The list of available networks will include Kyivstar SpaceX, enabling a smartphone to automatically connect to the satellite signal when terrestrial coverage is unavailable.
The United States had agreed to fund Starlink satellite services for Ukraine. The State Department approved the sale of satellite communication services and equipment worth approximately $150 million.
