SpaceX and the Hungarian telecommunications and defense group 4iG have signed agreements to launch Starlink Mobile. The companies describe the partnership as the first in Europe to combine direct-to-smartphone satellite connectivity with a dedicated “Sovereign Solutions” initiative. Under this new partnership, Starlink Mobile will initially launch in Hungary and Albania.
Starlink Mobile enables standard LTE smartphones to connect directly to satellites without the need for specialized equipment. The service is designed to complement 4iG’s terrestrial networks in Hungary and the Western Balkans, providing connectivity in mountainous areas, coastal waters, and coverage dead zones, as well as during emergencies or temporary network outages. A subsequent launch of Starlink Mobile V2 is planned, featuring support for satellite-based 5G via the 2 GHz band; this version will also be rolled out in Montenegro and North Macedonia.
The second initiative is branded “Sovereign Solutions.” 4iG Space and Defence Technologies and SpaceX will create a secure broadband communication system featuring end-to-end data protection for national security applications. The launch is scheduled for next year. The deployment timeline for Starlink Mobile will depend on regulatory, technical, and commercial conditions in each country.
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