We consider the use of deep neural network (DNN) to develop a decision-directed (DD)-channel estimation (CE) algorithm for multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO)-space-time block coded systems in highly dynamic vehicular environments. We propose the use of DNN for k-step channel prediction for space-time block code (STBC)s, and show that deep learning (DL)-based DD-CE can removes the need for Doppler spread estimation in fast time-varying quasi stationary channels, where the Doppler spread varies from one packet to another. Doppler spread estimation in this kind of vehicular channels is remarkably challenging and requires a large number of pilots and preambles, leading to lower power and spectral efficiency. We train two DNNs which learn real and imaginary parts of the MIMO fading channels over a wide range of Doppler spreads. We demonstrate that by those DNNs, DD-CE can be realized with only rough priori knowledge about Doppler spread range. For the proposed DD-CE algorithm, we also analytically derive the maximum likelihood (ML) decoding algorithm for STBC transmission. The proposed DL-based DD-CE is a promising solution for reliable communication over the vehicular MIMO fading channels without accurate mathematical models. This is because DNN can intelligently learn the statistics of the fading channels. Our simulation results show that the proposed DL-based DD-CE algorithm exhibits lower propagation error compared to existing DD-CE algorithms while the latters require perfect knowledge of the Doppler rate.part of the DD-CE is channel prediction. Existing channel predictors are highly depended on channel statistics which is severely affected by the estimation of Doppler spread of the channel. However, in highly dynamic vehicular environments, Doppler spread estimation is challenging.Recently, deep learning (DL) has been widely investigated in the signal processing and communications problems to improve the performance of some certain parts of conventional communication systems, such as decoding, estimation, and more [14]- [21]. In particular, DL-based CE methods have been studied in literature such as the recent work in [14]. A deep neural network (DNN) is a universal function approximator with superior logarithmic learning ability and convenient optimization capability, and thus can be used for the problems without any accurate mathematical model [22]. Currently, most of the existing algorithms in communications rely on precise mathematical models. However, in practice tractable mathematical models cannot reflect many imperfections and nonlinearities, and can only work as rough approximations when these issues are non-negligible. DL can fix this drawback in communication and information theory and offer algorithms without mathematically tractable models [18].Motivated by the limitations of existing channel predictors and the strength of DNN in learning and prediction, a DLbased DD-CE for MIMO STBC is proposed in this paper, where the MIMO channel coefficients are predicted by two trained DNNs. While existing c...