Islamabad: Pakistan government has granted a temporary No Objection Certificate (NOC) to satellite-based internet provider Starlink, marking a significant step towards enhancing internet connectivity in the country. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication made the announcement on Friday.
Starlink, a subsidiary of Elon Musk’s SpaceX, operates as a main internet service provider through space-based Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. Musk made this statement during January when he confirmed Starlink’s Pakistan application but noted that it required government acceptance.
IT Minister Shaza Fatima announced that the temporary NOC was issued on the directive of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasizing government’s initiative to modernize Pakistan’s information technology (IT) framework.
“Starlink has been issued a temporary NOC with the consensus of all security and regulatory agencies,” Fatima said. “Starlink’s arrival in Pakistan will mark the formal launch of satellite internet services.”
She further highlighted that the move aligns with the government’s vision for digital development. “The Prime Minister had directed that the internet system in Pakistan should be improved,” she said. “Modern solutions like satellite internet will improve connectivity in the country.”
The minister confirmed that Starlink received its registration through “whole-of-government” approach, involving all Pakistani government agencies including both security agencies and the Cybercrime Agency together with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and Pakistan Space Activities Regulatory Board (PSARB).
“PTA will complete Starlink’s fee payment and other licensing requirements,” she stated.
A formal license will be issued by the PTA only after the company fulfills its fee payment obligations and compliance requirements. However, sources indicate that Starlink will secure its license from the regulatory authorities within the next four weeks.
The PSARB’s clearance function served as an essential requirement for any satellite-based internet service provider needing to operate in Pakistan. The board has successfully finalised all critical technical aspects, including the establishment of earth gateway platform locations, the specification of power output levels, and the determination of frequency arrays.
According to sources, Starlink must first acquire the PTA licence in order to commence its complete services in Pakistan within a year. The company’s LEO satellites will improve the delivery of high-speed internet to remote locations that are underserved, with an orbital range of 250 to 500 kilometres.
Additionally, the government has engaged an international consultant to help finalize regulations for satellite-based internet services, ensuring smooth integration into Pakistan’s digital landscape.