Deutsche Telekom and Starlink have announced a partnership to bring satellite-to-mobile connectivity to Europe, aiming to eliminate dead zones and bolster network resilience across ten countries, with a planned launch in 2028. The agreement, revealed on Monday, will leverage Starlink’s next-generation V2 satellites and Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) spectrum to provide direct-to-device connectivity for over 140 million subscribers.
The service will allow compatible smartphones to automatically switch to Starlink’s satellite network when terrestrial coverage is unavailable, enabling continued access to data, voice, video, and messaging. According to Starlink, the system is designed to deliver 5G speeds directly to compatible smartphones in remote areas.
“We provide our customers with the best mobile network. And we continue to invest heavily in expanding our infrastructure,” said Abdu Mudesir, Board Member for Product and Technology at Deutsche Telekom, in a press release. “At the same time, there are regions where expansion is especially complex due to topographical conditions or official constraints. We seek to ensure reliable connectivity for our customers in those areas as well. That is why we are strategically complementing our network with satellite-to-mobile connectivity. For us, This proves clear: connectivity creates security and trust. And we deliver. Everywhere.”
Starlink’s Vice President of Sales, Stephanie Bednarek, stated the partnership will bring reliable satellite-to-mobile connectivity to millions across Europe. “This agreement is the first of its kind in Europe to deploy Starlink’s V2 next-generation technology,” she said.
The collaboration is the first in Europe to utilize Starlink’s second-generation satellites, according to both companies. The service will operate exclusively within Starlink’s MSS spectrum. Deutsche Telekom anticipates the satellite connectivity will enhance the resilience of its network, providing a backup during natural disasters or prolonged power outages when terrestrial infrastructure is compromised.
Deutsche Telekom currently provides 5G coverage to nearly 90 percent of Germany, with LTE coverage extending to over 92 percent of the country. Voice service is available in up to 99 percent of Germany. The satellite service is intended to fill the remaining gaps in coverage, addressing areas where traditional network expansion is challenging due to geographical or regulatory constraints.
The launch is planned for 2028 in several Telekom markets, including Germany. The companies have not yet specified which other European countries will be included in the initial rollout.
