In a landmark development for Pakistan’s telecommunications sector, Elon Musk’s Starlink has entered into a strategic partnership with VEON Ltd, the multinational digital operator and parent company of Jazz Pakistan, to launch Direct-to-Cell (D2C) satellite connectivity services in Pakistan and other VEON-operated markets.
This collaboration aims to revolutionize mobile connectivity by enabling standard smartphones to connect directly to Starlink satellites, eliminating the need for terrestrial cell towers. The agreement positions Pakistan among the next wave of countries to benefit from seamless satellite-to-mobile communication, a technology expected to redefine connectivity in remote and underserved regions.
A Global Partnership with Local Significance
Under the new framework, Starlink and VEON will collaborate to integrate Direct-to-Cell satellite services across VEON’s operational footprint, which includes Pakistan, Bangladesh, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.
The initial rollout is scheduled to begin in Ukraine and Kazakhstan in 2026, with Pakistan anticipated to follow once regulatory processes and infrastructure integration are complete. The move comes as VEON continues its transformation from a traditional telecom operator into a digital connectivity provider, leveraging satellite technology to expand its reach beyond conventional coverage zones.
In Pakistan, Jazz, VEON’s local subsidiary and the country’s largest mobile network operator with over 70 million subscribers, is expected to play a pivotal role in testing and implementing Starlink’s D2C capabilities.
Transforming Connectivity in Pakistan
The partnership marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s communications infrastructure. With thousands of remote areas still lacking consistent mobile coverage due to difficult terrain and limited fiber backhaul, Direct-to-Cell satellite technology could provide a game-changing alternative.
By integrating Starlink’s low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite network, Jazz will be able to offer reliable mobile service in regions where traditional networks have struggled — including northern mountainous zones, coastal areas, and disaster-prone regions.
According to telecom analysts, this development could also help bridge Pakistan’s digital divide, supporting emergency communications, agriculture, logistics, and IoT applications across rural communities.
Starlink’s Global Vision Meets VEON’s Regional Reach
Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell technology is designed to connect smartphones directly to satellites without requiring special hardware or modifications. Users will be able to send messages, make calls, and access mobile data even outside terrestrial coverage areas.
For Starlink, the deal represents a strategic expansion of its global footprint by tapping into VEON’s 150 million customer base across emerging markets. For VEON, it reinforces its long-term goal of integrating next-generation connectivity solutions into its digital ecosystem.
In a joint statement, executives from both companies emphasized the shared vision behind the alliance:
“This partnership brings the power of Starlink’s satellite innovation to VEON’s digital markets, enabling truly universal mobile coverage. Together, we are setting new standards for accessibility and resilience in communication.”
Regulatory Landscape and Next Steps
Pakistan has already taken steps toward enabling satellite internet operations. In early 2025, Starlink received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Pakistani authorities, allowing it to explore commercial operations within the country.
With VEON’s presence and Jazz’s established network, the integration process is expected to progress smoothly once the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) finalizes technical and spectrum regulations for Direct-to-Cell services.
Industry insiders suggest that pilot programs could begin in late 2026, with full-scale rollout expected thereafter — potentially making Pakistan one of the first markets in South Asia to experience operational satellite-to-mobile connectivity.
A Step Toward the Future of Connectivity
This partnership signals a new era for telecommunications in Pakistan — one where connectivity transcends geography. The blend of terrestrial and satellite networks will not only enhance reliability but also bolster digital inclusion, ensuring that even the most remote communities have access to mobile services.
It also positions Jazz as a frontrunner in next-generation mobile innovation in South Asia, setting the stage for future applications in 5G backhaul, disaster recovery, smart agriculture, and IoT.
As the world moves closer to universal coverage, Pakistan’s inclusion in Starlink’s Direct-to-Cell roadmap underscores the country’s growing importance in the global digital ecosystem.
