Pakistan focusing on low earth orbit satellite operators to enhance communications
Pakistan is exploring the possibility of transitioning from High Earth Orbit (HEO) satellite operators to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) providers in an effort to enhance its satellite communications infrastructure. This shift could potentially open the door for global players such as Starlink, OneWeb, and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology to operate in the country.
However, despite interest from LEO
operators, Pakistan has yet to grant them operational approval. The approval
process is overseen by the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB),
which was established under the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024. The PSARB
ensures that the satellite projects align with Pakistan's legal, security, and
economic priorities.
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Current
Satellite Landscape
Currently, Pakistan's satellite
communications sector is largely dominated by international HEO operators,
including Asiasat, Apstar, and Yahsat. These companies play a key role in
providing services across various sectors such as telecommunications and
broadcasting. However, many of these operators are not registered with the
Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and do not comply with
local tax laws, which raises concerns about their presence in the Pakistani
market.
Pakistan itself operates two
satellites: PAKSAT-1R, which is nearing the end of its operational life, and
PAKSAT-MM1, launched in 2023, but still underutilized. With increasing demand
for satellite-based communication services, Pakistan is considering the
advantages of LEO technology, which offers faster communication, particularly
in underserved regions.
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LEO
Technology and Challenges
LEO satellites offer faster
connectivity but come with high costs for satellite production and the
deployment of numerous ground stations necessary for data transmission and
processing. Without these gateway stations, LEO operators cannot provide
services, as all satellite traffic must pass through a licensed system to
comply with regulations.
Some reports suggest that Starlink
and other LEO operators are already operational in Pakistan; however, industry
analysts have debunked these claims. The companies themselves have clarified
that they will not activate services until they receive the required approvals,
including a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PSARB and permission from
the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
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Future
Prospects
LEO operators, particularly
Starlink, are increasingly interested in their potential to connect rural areas
in Pakistan with high-speed internet. This expansion is expected to involve
significant capital investment, including the establishment of data centers,
fiber optic connectivity, and the development of gateway stations.
Globally, the LEO satellite industry
is evolving rapidly, with Starlink already operating in over 100 countries.
However, challenges such as high infrastructure costs, regulatory hurdles, and
concerns over space debris continue to affect the sector.
LEO operators have the opportunity
to enter Pakistan’s tightly regulated satellite market, provided they meet the
country's legal and strategic requirements. While the regulatory process is
still ongoing, the role of satellite connectivity in Pakistan remains
uncertain, highlighting the challenges of introducing new technologies in a
competitive and complex market.
Source: www.techjuice.pk