PTA to Grant License for Fixed Satellite Services in Pakistan

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is preparing to grant a license for the establishment, maintenance, and operation of a licensed system to provide Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) within the country. This initiative aims to enhance Pakistan’s satellite communication capabilities by allowing private entities to set up infrastructure for fixed satellite connectivity.

Scope of the License

Under the terms and conditions outlined in the license, the approved entity will be authorized to offer various services, including:

• Fixed Earth Stations – Ground stations that communicate with satellites.
• Fixed Gateway Earth Stations – Primary hubs that facilitate connectivity between satellites and the public network.
• Fixed Terminal Earth Stations – End-user satellite terminals for communication.
• Associated Terrestrial Transmission Facilities – Infrastructure needed to link the gateway station to public networks.

The licensee is required to start offering services within 18 months from the effective date of the license.

Financial Requirements

The licensee must fulfil several financial obligations, including initial payments and recurring fees. These include:

• Initial License Fee (ILF): A one-time payment of $500,000 (or equivalent in Pakistani Rupees) before the license becomes effective.
• Annual License Fee (ALF): 0.5% of the company’s annual gross revenue from licensed services, minus inter-operator costs and other mandatory PTA/FAB contributions. However, deductions for payments like penalties, foreign carrier charges, and other expenses imposed by the authority are not permitted.
• Universal Service Fund (USF) Contribution: 1.5% of the annual gross revenue from licensed services, following the same deduction rules as the ALF.
• Annual Radio Frequency Spectrum Fee: 0.5% of the annual gross revenue from licensed services.

Additionally, the licensee must pay a one-time registration fee for infrastructure setup:

• $1,500 (or equivalent in PKR) for registering each Fixed Gateway Earth Station.
• $1,000 (or equivalent in PKR) for each Fixed Earth Station or Fixed Hub Station.
• Registration fees do not apply to Fixed Terminal Earth Stations.

Limitations of the License

This license does not grant permission for certain telecommunication services, including:

• The establishment of a terrestrial-only public switched network.
• Exclusive reliance on terrestrial network elements for telecommunications.
• Operation of satellite services on moving objects such as vessels, aircraft, or vehicles.
• Provision of Mobile Satellite Services (MSS).
• Broadcasting or distribution of radio and television programs.
• Any other activities that the PTA may restrict through regulations.

Compliance and Regulations

The licensee must comply with all relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines, including:

• The Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024 and any subsequent amendments.
• Directives from the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and other regulatory bodies.
• Registration of Fixed Earth Stations, Fixed Gateway Earth Stations, and Very Small Aperture Terminals (VSATs) with the PTA before installation or relocation.

All transmissions under the Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) must cease before any change in station location unless specifically exempted by PTA.

PTA has also asked the people on its LinkedIn profile for review and feedback on the proposed FSS License. The last date to provide the feedback is 14th February 2025.

Our Thoughts:

By issuing this license, PTA aims to promote satellite-based communication services in Pakistan, ensuring compliance with national laws and regulatory frameworks. The move will improve connectivity, enhance digital infrastructure, and expand the availability of advanced satellite services in the country.

See Also: Starlink Needs Security Clearance and Licenses to Operate in Pakistan: Chairman PTA