The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoIT&T) of Pakistan has clarified why Starlink, the satellite broadband service under SpaceX, has yet to commence operations in the country. According to a recent update provided to the National Assembly, the delay is primarily due to Starlink’s failure to comply with Pakistan’s technical and regulatory requirements.
Licensing Delays Explained
The MoIT&T reported that Starlink has not yet secured the necessary operating license because it has not fully adhered to the technical and regulatory frameworks established by the Pakistani government. Key concerns include potential interference between Geostationary Satellite Orbit (GSO) systems and Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) systems, which has been a significant factor in the delay.
Official documents reveal that while Starlink and other satellite broadband companies are eager to launch services in Pakistan, none have met the comprehensive licensing requirements needed for a commercial rollout.
Starlink’s Efforts and Challenges
Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, has been working to enter the Pakistani market since it registered as “Starlink Internet Services Pakistan (Private) Ltd.” with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) in December 2021. The company applied for a Long Distance and International (LDI) license with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in February 2022. Despite considerable anticipation and effort, Starlink has not yet fulfilled all the regulatory conditions required for operational approval.
The MoIT&T highlighted that Starlink is not the only satellite broadband provider interested in Pakistan. Other international Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellite operators have also shown interest. However, all such entities must comply with the technical, regulatory, and security standards set by the PTA, Frequency Allocation Board (FAB), and other national bodies.
Regulatory and Technical Assessments
The delay in Starlink’s licensing process is attributed to extensive evaluations conducted by various stakeholders, including the Strategic Plans Division (SPD) and the Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO). These agencies have raised concerns related to the technical, regulatory, financial, and commercial aspects of Starlink’s proposed operations. Despite ongoing discussions, Starlink has yet to address these concerns to the satisfaction of the evaluators, leading to a protracted licensing process.
Recent Developments
Pakistan’s National Space Policy (NSP) was approved in December 2023, followed by the Pakistan Space Activity Rules (PSARB) in February 2024. These regulations apply to all satellite operators, including Starlink, and are intended to ensure compliance with national standards for space activities.
In summary, the MoIT&T’s statement sheds light on the regulatory hurdles faced by Starlink and other satellite operators. The licensing process remains ongoing as Starlink and other providers work to meet Pakistan’s stringent requirements for satellite broadband services.
