Dhaka: Bangladesh could transform internet connectivity with NGSO networks like Starlink, driving up education, economy, and social inclusion through high-speed, low-latency access, said technology experts.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Starlink’s internet download speeds range from 25 to 220 Mbps, with most users experiencing speeds over 100 Mbps, while upload speeds typically range from 5 to 20 Mbps. On Thursday, Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus held a video discussion with Elon Musk, owner of SpaceX, Tesla, and X, to explore future collaboration and advance the introduction of Starlink satellite internet in Bangladesh.
Talking to BSS, Mustafa Mahmud Hussain, a telecom and technology analyst, stated that Bangladesh is on the verge of adopting Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) satellite services to modernize its digital infrastructure. With flexible regulations that encourage competition and innovation, the country can boost connectivity for millions, unlocking new opportunities in healthcare, education, business, and community development.
He mentioned that Starlink might be a viable option to provide internet connectivity in remote and unconnected areas of the country, minimizing the shortcomings of existing market players. Meanwhile, Veon Ltd, the parent company of mobile phone operator Banglalink, is exploring opportunities to bring satellite-powered mobile services to Bangladesh in partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink, aiming to bridge connectivity gaps in areas where terrestrial networks fall short.
Telecom expert Lt Col (Retd) Mohammad Zulfikar expressed curiosity about the cost of satellite-based internet, acknowledging its potential high expense. He noted that SpaceX designs tariffs differently for countries in Southeast Asia and Africa to ensure network inclusion. According to Starlink’s website, users must purchase equipment, known as the Starlink kit, costing between US$ 349 to US$ 599, with a minimum monthly fee of $120 for residential customers.
Mustafa Mahmud Hussain highlighted that Starlink offers lower prices in some African villages, ranging from US$ 10 to US$ 30, and anticipated that end users in Bangladesh’s remote areas would benefit from Starlink’s arrival. Industry insiders noted that mobile network operators and ISPs currently rely on bandwidth from IIG operators dependent on submarine and international terrestrial cables, whereas Starlink provides internet through a constellation of satellites in low Earth orbit.
Since its inception in 2015 and official launch in 2019, the Starlink project has expanded to over 100 countries, deploying 6,994 satellites as of January 30. Starlink’s technology was tested in Bangladesh in July 2023, and a delegation visited Dhaka in October 2024, meeting with BIDA’s Executive Chairman and discussing a draft guideline by BTRC for NGSO Satellite Services Operators.
During their conversation, Prof Yunus and Elon Musk emphasized Starlink’s potential to empower Bangladesh’s youth, rural women, and remote communities, bridging the digital divide and facilitating education, healthcare, and economic development in underserved regions.