Starlink has found a partner to launch internet in Uzbekistan

Elon Musk’s company SpaceX’s satellite network operator, Starlink, has reached a strategic agreement with the international telecommunications holding company Veon. This partnership enables the integration of Starlink satellite communication services into Veon’s mobile network under the “Beeline” brand in Uzbekistan.

As a result of the collaboration, “Direct to Cell” technology will be implemented. This technology allows ordinary smartphones to connect directly to Starlink satellites.

This innovation eliminates the need for traditional ground infrastructure such as mobile communication towers, and is especially vital for ensuring coverage in the country’s remote and hard-to-reach regions. The global framework agreement between Veon and Starlink is the first of its kind in the telecommunications sector and will be implemented in several markets where Veon operates.

According to the agreement, the services will be gradually introduced. Initially, this technology will be launched in Kazakhstan and Ukraine.

Later, it is planned to launch the services in other countries where Veon operates, including Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Although the exact date for launching the service in Uzbekistan has not yet been announced, earlier it was predicted that the service could become available in 2026.

It should be noted that Starlink began its commercial activities in Kazakhstan in August 2025, after signing the relevant agreement with the country’s Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry. The launch of services in Kazakhstan has been adopted as a pilot project for Central Asia.

Here, the service will first establish messaging, and later add data transmission and voice communication functions. The main goal of the collaboration is to solve the problem of digital inequality and ensure stable communication in areas with weak or nonexistent terrestrial network coverage.

According to Veon CEO Kaan Terzioğlu, the capabilities of terrestrial networks are limited, and it is necessary to combine space and terrestrial technologies to ensure reliable communication, especially in cases of natural disasters or energy shortages. Read “Zamin” on Telegram!