Pakistan is exploring different options for shifting from High Earth Orbit (HEO) to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite operators, as global companies such as Elon Musk’s Starlink, OneWeb, and Shanghai Spacecom Satellite Technology express interest in entering the market. Despite the growing demand for LEO services, Islamabad has yet to grant permission for these companies to operate in the country.
At present, Pakistan’s satellite communications landscape is dominated by established HEO operators. These companies primarily serve the television broadcasting and telecommunications sectors, with notable operators such as Asiasat, Apstar, Yahsat, and SES providing essential services across the country. However, these HEO operators are not registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) or tax authorities, raising questions about their compliance with local regulations.
The situation is further complicated by Pakistan’s ownership of two satellites. PAKSAT-1R, which has been in service since 2011, is approaching the end of its operational life, while PAKSAT-MM1, launched last year, remains under-utilised. The government is faced with the challenge of optimising these satellite assets amidst a growing demand for satellite communication services.
LEO satellites, which operate at lower altitudes than HEO satellites, are gaining popularity worldwide due to their potential to offer high-speed internet, especially in underserved and remote areas. These satellites are known for their lower latency, improved data speeds, and ability to provide extensive global coverage. However, establishing LEO constellations requires considerable infrastructure investments, including the deployment of thousands of satellites and the establishment of ground-based gateway stations in each country to securely route data.
Companies like Starlink, OneWeb, and others are keen to operate in Pakistan but cannot do so without first setting up their gateway stations. These stations are crucial for ensuring that satellite traffic is routed securely through licensed systems, preventing operators from bypassing national regulatory frameworks. Despite misleading reports suggesting that Starlink is already operating in Pakistan, industry experts have clarified that these companies cannot provide services until the necessary infrastructure, including gateway stations, is in place.
There has also been confusion in local media regarding the pricing and launch plans of LEO operators, with some reports inaccurately claiming that services have already started. Satellite internet operators assert that they can help bridge Pakistan’s digital divide by providing high-speed internet to rural areas, with plans to invest millions of dollars in infrastructure, including data centre colocation, fibre optic connectivity, and construction materials. However, before any LEO operator can begin services in Pakistan, they must obtain approval from the Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB), the body responsible for overseeing satellite operations in the country.
The PSARB, established under the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024, ensures that all satellite operations align with Pakistan’s legal, security, and economic priorities. LEO operators must first secure a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the PSARB as part of the process to obtain a licence from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).
For LEO satellite operators to succeed in Pakistan, they must navigate a highly regulated environment. While HEO operators currently dominate the market, LEO technology has the potential to revolutionise satellite communication, particularly by providing improved services to remote and rural areas. The success of these operators will depend on their ability to comply with Pakistan’s legal and strategic requirements.
Globally, the LEO satellite industry is expanding rapidly, with Starlink already providing services in over 100 countries. Companies such as OneWeb and Amazon’s Project Kuiper are also working to expand their satellite constellations. Despite the challenges, LEO satellite technology holds the potential to provide significant benefits, especially in regions with limited access to reliable internet services.
The future of satellite connectivity in Pakistan will largely depend on how the country adapts its regulatory and infrastructure frameworks to accommodate emerging LEO satellite technologies. As the industry evolves, the government’s stance on satellite communications will be crucial in determining whether LEO operators can gain a foothold in the market. The outcome will shape the future of satellite-based internet services in Pakistan, with the potential to significantly improve connectivity across the country.
