Together with UNHCR, we already use satellite links to connect schools in refugee camps across Africa where mobile networks are notoriously inadequate. In Ukraine itself, our Vodafone partner used Starlink to quickly restore some form of connectivity after Russian attacks on civil infrastructure.
These technology solutions have been around for years and are being used with great success, especially to help citizens in times of emergencies and natural disasters.
They have two practical limitations, however. Firstly, they all rely on dedicated devices, special dishes, terminals or expensive satellite phones to leverage space for connectivity. And secondly, they work far better in a clearly defined geographical area, with often limited mobility.
So, if this is what Prime Minister Meloni meant, she is right.
Or, rather, she was right.
Because, in January this year, the world’s first space-based video call from a mobile ‘not spot’ was made using normal smartphones and commercial satellites built for a full mobile broadband experience. And it was done by Vodafone, in partnership with AST SpaceMobile.