Starlink has applied to establish 2-3 ground stations in the country as part of its plan to directly provide internet services to Pakistani consumers via its low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) told Senate Standing Committee

In addition, Musk’s company has also requested to seek licenses to operate within Pakistan.

It is worthy to note that Starlink applied for a Long-Distance International (LDI) license on February 24, 2022, and 14 Local Loop licenses on April 29, 2022. PTA forwarded the application to the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MOITT) in March 2022 for further consultation.

The regulatory framework for satellite-based telecommunication services in Pakistan is governed by the National Satellite Policy 2023 and the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024. Approved in December 2023, the National Satellite Policy mandates federal and provincial agencies to collaborate under the direction of the National Space Agency (SUPARCO) to execute satellite-related initiatives.

Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB) deals with registration process for satellite service providers like Starlink and issues No Objection Certificates (NOCs) required for licensing.

According to the PSARB’s mandate, all local and foreign satellite service providers must follow local and international laws as enshrined in the National Communications Authority Rules of 2024.

PSARB, currently, is reviewing the Starlink’s application to establish ground stations in the country.