Is Pakistan Ready for Starlink’s High-Speed Satellite Internet?

The slow speed and frequent interruptions in internet services across Pakistan have long been a challenge for users. A new hope arose when Elon Musk’s Starlink applied for registration in Pakistan. But is Pakistan ready for Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet? If Starlink launches in the country, it could seriously compete with existing internet service providers (ISPs). This potential entry is driving the need for local operators to enhance their networks to remain competitive.
Is Pakistan Ready for Starlink’s High-Speed Satellite Internet?
As of now, Starlink Internet Services has not officially launched its services in Pakistan. Pakistan’s regulatory authorities are cautiously reviewing its plan to operate through Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. These include the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and the Frequency Allocation Board (FAB). The Space Regulatory Authority is also involved in analyzing Starlink’s technical plans to ensure compatibility with existing systems.
Starlink’s satellites operate in LEO at altitudes between 250 and 500 kilometers, offering low-latency connectivity that traditional satellites in Geostationary Orbit (GSO) at 36,000 kilometers cannot match. However, this advanced technology requires careful integration to coexist with the approximately 14 GSO satellites currently providing services in Pakistan.
Regulatory Challenges and Licensing
The process of granting Starlink an operational license in Pakistan involves multiple layers of scrutiny. In December 2023, Pakistan implemented a new space policy mandating all local and foreign satellite service providers to register with the Pakistan Space Regulatory Authority (PSARB). Starlink, which is represented locally by Starlink Internet Services Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd and owned by Starlink Holdings Netherlands BV, applied for a Long Distance and International (LDI) license in February 2022 and additional licenses for various telecom regions in April 2022. However, their case is still under technical evaluation.
This evaluation ensures that Starlink’s operations do not interfere with existing communication systems. The PTA will decide to grant a license only after the necessary registration and due diligence are completed.
Unique Features of Starlink’s Technology
Starlink differs significantly from traditional ISPs in Pakistan. While traditional satellites rely on fixed ground stations for connectivity, Starlink uses a network of LEO satellites that communicate with multiple ground stations simultaneously. The system also supports satellite-to-satellite connectivity via laser technology, enabling seamless coverage even in remote areas.
Internet bandwidth is accessed from ground stations within the country, and data is transmitted via optical fiber to and from Starlink satellites, ensuring high-speed internet for end users. These advancements make Starlink particularly appealing for areas with limited infrastructure.
Challenges and Future Outlook
One major barrier to Starlink’s adoption in Pakistan is cost. The initial setup fees and monthly charges are significantly higher than those of fixed-line or wireless networks. This has limited Starlink’s penetration in Asia compared to Europe and America. However, its ability to provide high-speed, low-latency internet even in underserved regions could disrupt the market.
If Starlink gains regulatory approval, it will likely compel existing ISPs in Pakistan to innovate and improve their services. While its entry remains under review, Starlink’s advanced technology and global success have already highlighted the need for improved connectivity across Pakistan.
See Also: How Starlink Could Revolutionize Internet Access Across Pakistan
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