Airtel Africa claims first commercial launch of Starlink Mobile in DRC

Details: Manny Pham; Category: Satellite Networks; 14 August 2026; 432 views

Airtel Africa and Starlink have launched their satellite-to-mobile service in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with the operator claiming the country's deployment is the first commercial launch of Elon Musk's satellite connectivity service.

Compatible smartphones will be able to connect directly to Starlink's satellite network in areas without terrestrial mobile infrastructure, Airtel Africa said.

The service supports light data applications including WhatsApp and SMS, with no external equipment required. Airtel said the service uses Starlink's 650-strong direct-to-device satellite constellation.

The launch follows a pilot of Starlink Mobile data and messaging services by the two companies in Kenya in March.

Airtel Africa CEO Sunil Taldar described the DRC launch as a significant milestone in extending "essential connectivity" beyond terrestrial networks. He said the DRC deployment would provide a blueprint for the gradual expansion of the service across Airtel Africa's 14 markets in sub-Saharan Africa.

Airtel DRC managing director Thierry Diasnova said the country's size and geography make it difficult for operators to economically deploy terrestrial infrastructure in remote areas.

"This service provides an additional layer of connectivity, helping customers remain reachable, informed and connected even in areas where terrestrial coverage is unavailable," he said.

Airtel expects the service to support users including transport and logistics operators, humanitarian organisations, health workers, farmers and mining operations, as well as communities outside the reach of existing mobile networks.

The satellite service could also provide communications during emergencies, including natural disasters, when terrestrial infrastructure may be unavailable.