Starlink Submits Business Plan To PTA For Operations In Pakistan

Starlink, which offers internet access via satellite in several different nations, submitted a technical and business plan to PTA for operations in Pakistan.

SpaceX’s Starlink has submitted an application to conduct business in Pakistan. However, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), the nation’s telecommunications regulatory body, and other stakeholders have expressed concern about the plan.

The PTA has stated that a security clearance is a requirement for permission to use satellite internet. With plans to use satellite-to-satellite laser technology, Starlink, which offers internet access via satellite in several different nations, submitted a technical and business plan to PTA for operations in Pakistan.

However, a number of parties have voiced concerns about data hosting outside of Pakistan and the security risks associated with satellite internet, including the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) and other organizations.

In the areas of space science, technology, and its applications as well as satellite design and development programmes, SUPARCO engages in a wide variety of research and development activities. SUPARCO strongly supports the peaceful applications of space science & technology for the benefit of humanity and values international cooperation.

In response to these worries, PTA has made permission for satellite internet subject to security clearance. The action is being taken as Pakistan’s government has been tightening rules for internet and technology companies doing business there.

The introduction of satellite internet could provide much-needed relief to those who struggle with sluggish and unreliable connections as the nation continues to struggle with problems in its telecommunications infrastructure.

SpaceX runs the Starlink satellite constellation, which covers 48 nations with satellite Internet access. After 2023, it also aims to provide international mobile phone service. Starlink satellite launches by SpaceX began in 2019.

In low Earth orbit (LEO) as of February 2023, Starlink consists of more than 3,580 small, mass-produced satellites that communicate with specific ground transceivers. Approximately 12,000 satellites will be deployed in total, with a potential later increase to 42,000. In December 2022, SpaceX predicted it would reach a million subscribers.