Bangladesh stands on the brink of a potential internet connectivity revolution, thanks to the advent of Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) networks like Starlink. Technology experts believe this shift could significantly enhance the country’s education system, economy, and social inclusivity through high-speed, low-latency internet access.
Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, offers internet speeds ranging from 25 to 220 Mbps for downloads, with the majority of users enjoying speeds over 100 Mbps. Upload speeds typically range from 5 to 20 Mbps. During a video discussion on Thursday, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Elon Musk, the owner of SpaceX, Tesla, and X, explored potential collaboration to expedite the introduction of Starlink in Bangladesh.
Mustafa Mahmud Hussain, a telecom and technology analyst, emphasized that Bangladesh is poised to embrace NGSO satellite services like Starlink, a move that could modernize its digital infrastructure. He believes that with the right regulatory framework fostering competition and innovation, the country can enhance connectivity for millions of citizens, unlocking new opportunities in healthcare, education, business, and community development.
“Starlink could provide a viable solution for internet connectivity in remote and underserved areas, addressing the limitations of current market players,” Hussain noted.
In a related development, Veon Ltd, the parent company of Banglalink, is exploring a partnership with SpaceX to bring satellite-powered mobile services to Bangladesh. This collaboration aims to bridge connectivity gaps in regions where traditional networks are insufficient. Insiders suggest that Banglalink is set to finalize the deal with SpaceX at the upcoming Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
Telecom expert Lt Col (Retd) Mohammad Zulfikar expressed cautious optimism about Starlink’s arrival in Bangladesh. While he acknowledged the global success of the technology, he raised concerns about the cost of satellite-based internet services, considering the potential high expenses associated with satellite connectivity. “The key question is what the pricing structure will look like for Bangladesh,” Zulfikar commented.
According to Starlink’s website, users must purchase a kit that includes a receiver or antenna, kickstand, router, cable, and power supply, which can range from $349 to $599. The minimum monthly fee for residential users is set at $120, while corporate customers can expect to pay significantly more. However, pricing varies depending on the country.
Hussain highlighted that in some African nations, Starlink offers internet services at significantly lower rates, between $10 and $30. This price reduction makes Starlink a promising option for underserved regions in Bangladesh, he added.
Currently, mobile network operators and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Bangladesh rely on bandwidth from International Internet Gateway (IIG) operators, who depend on submarine and terrestrial cables. In contrast, Starlink offers internet services via satellites. As of January 2024, Starlink has deployed 6,994 satellites, orbiting about 342 miles (550 kilometers) above the Earth. Starlink’s low Earth orbit satellite constellation is designed to provide global high-speed internet access.
Launched in 2019, Starlink is already operational in over 100 countries, with Bhutan being the first South Asian country to adopt the service. In July 2023, Starlink began testing its technology in Bangladesh. Following a visit by a Starlink delegation to Dhaka in October 2024, discussions with the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA) and the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) led to the creation of draft guidelines for NGSO satellite services.
During their conversation, Professor Yunus and Elon Musk highlighted the transformative impact of Starlink’s satellite communications. They discussed how affordable, high-speed internet could bridge the digital divide in Bangladesh, providing critical access to education, healthcare, and economic development, especially for remote communities, rural women, and the country’s vibrant entrepreneurial sector.
If implemented effectively, Starlink’s satellite technology could become a game-changer for Bangladesh, empowering millions of people and enhancing the country’s digital landscape.
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