Starlink Plans to Establish Ground Stations in Pakistan

Starlink’s Bold Move: Ground Stations Coming to Pakistan! Find Out What This Means for the Country
The highly anticipated arrival of Starlink, Elon Musk’s revolutionary satellite internet service, is taking an interesting turn. In a surprising move, Starlink has applied to set up ground stations in Pakistan. With this new development on the horizon, let’s delve into what it means for the country and its digital landscape.
- Stay connected: Discover how Starlink plans to provide high-speed internet access across remote areas.
- Boosting connectivity: Learn about the potential benefits that widespread broadband coverage can bring.
- Economic impact: Explore how improved internet infrastructure could positively influence sectors like education and business growth.
Curious? Join us as we uncover all you need to know about Starlink applying for ground stations in Pakistan – a game-changer poised to revolutionize connectivity nationwide!
Starlink’s Expansion into Pakistan: A Promising Development
Elon Musk-owned Starlink has taken a significant step towards establishing its presence in Pakistan. The company recently registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under the name “Starlink Internet Services (Private) Limited.” This move signals their intent to offer internet services directly to consumers within Pakistani territory using their innovative low Earth orbit satellites.
According to information provided by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Starlink aims to set up 2-3 ground stations across various locations in Pakistan. These ground stations will play a crucial role in enabling seamless connectivity for users, ensuring reliable access even in remote areas.
To turn this plan into reality, Starlink has also applied for licenses required for operating within Pakistani borders. Currently, these license applications are being processed by relevant authorities.
In summary, Starlink’s recent registration with SECP and application for setting up ground stations demonstrate an active effort on their part to establish themselves as providers of satellite-based internet services accessible directly by Pakistani users. With this promising development underway, it won’t be long before individuals throughout the country can enjoy high-speed connectivity through cutting-edge technology offered by Starlin
Starlink has submitted an application for a Long-Distance International (LDI) license and 14 Local Loop licenses. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) forwarded the case to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MOITT) in March 2022, seeking input from relevant stakeholders.
The Frequency Allocation Board (FAB), responsible for managing radio frequency spectrum usage, confirmed that Starlink’s satellite constellation operates globally without causing any reported interference issues with terrestrial networks.
Starlink: Revolutionizing Connectivity with Lightning-Fast Internet
In Pakistan, satellite-based telecommunication services are regulated by the National Satellite Policy 2023 and the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024. The National Satellite Policy was approved in December 2023 with directives for federal and provincial agencies to collaborate with the guidance of SUPARCO, which is designated as the national space agency overseeing satellite-related initiatives.
To ensure compliance within this regulatory framework, registration of satellite service providers like Starlink falls under the jurisdiction of PSARB—the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board—which also grants No Objection Certificates necessary for licensing purposes. All local and foreign providers must adhere to both domestic laws outlined in Rule35oftheNationalCommunicationsAuthorityRulesand international regulations related to their operations.
While existing geostationary satellites can continue operating under current agreements until expiration dates specified in these contracts expire; afterward
The PTA recently highlighted that although licensed operators in Pakistan can offer satellite-based telecommunication services, direct-to-consumer access is currently unavailable. One such operator, PTCL, provides bandwidth for point-to-point traffic transportation.
However, if Starlink were to enter the market, it could potentially revolutionize the industry by providing high-speed internet connectivity to areas of Pakistan with limited coverage. This would effectively bridge a significant digital divide and cater to underserved communities residing in remote regions across the country.