- BSCL proposes hosting Starlink’s gateway at Gazipur and Betbunia ground stations.
- BSCL aims to expedite Starlink’s satellite internet service launch within 90 days.
- A non-disclosure agreement was signed between BSCL and SpaceX in May 2023.
- Starlink has successfully tested its services in Bangladesh, confirming positive results.
- The Bangladesh government is finalizing regulations for satellite internet providers.
Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) is looking to partner with Starlink to bring satellite internet to the country. In a recent meeting in Dhaka, BSCL suggested hosting Starlink’s gateway at its Gazipur and Betbunia ground stations. This could speed up the service launch.
The meeting took place yesterday and included key representatives from both parties. Muhammad Imadur Rahman, managing director of BSCL, and Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, special assistant to the chief adviser for the Ministry of Telecom, represented Bangladesh. Starlink’s team was led by Rebecca Slick Hunter.
What Was Discussed?
At the meeting, BSCL highlighted its technical capabilities and extensive infrastructure, which includes uninterrupted power, true-redundant fibre connections, and highly skilled personnel. Imadur Rahman shared that BSCL is aiming to launch Starlink’s services within 90 days, as per the target set by the Chief Adviser, Prof Muhammad Yunus, earlier this year.
“We have elaborated on BSCL’s technical strengths and the wide array of services we can provide to support Starlink’s delivery in Bangladesh,” Rahman stated. “We are leveraging our capacity to expedite Starlink’s entry into the country.”
Earlier, in mid-February, Prof Yunus had a conversation with Elon Musk about the potential collaboration. During the virtual meeting, Prof Yunus invited Musk to visit Bangladesh for further discussions, to which Musk responded positively, expressing excitement about the partnership.
BSCL’s Infrastructure and Its Benefits
BSCL’s ground stations are equipped with a robust infrastructure that ensures the high security and reliability needed for hosting Starlink’s operations. Their facilities are classified as Key Point Installations (KPI) Category A by the government, indicating their high-security status. BSCL also offers 99.99% availability in fibre connections and continuous maintenance, which are key advantages for the partnership.
“Starlink was impressed by BSCL’s infrastructure and confirmed they would present the proposal to their headquarters,” said a source familiar with the development.
Progress of the BSCL-Starlink Collaboration
BSCL and Starlink have made great strides in their partnership. On May 12, 2023, they signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). Following that, five Starlink terminals were successfully tested in various locations across Bangladesh, including Dhaka, Rangpur, Hatia, and the Bay of Bengal.
These tests, in fact, showed that Starlink’s service performed exceptionally well in diverse environments. As a result, a report confirming these positive results was submitted to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC). The BTRC, of course, is responsible for regulating satellite internet services in the country.
Mustafa Mahmud Hussain, a telecom expert, praised the collaboration. “BSCL’s expertise and infrastructure ensure a smooth rollout of Starlink’s services in Bangladesh. This partnership could significantly enhance digital connectivity in the country,” he said.
In the meantime, the BTRC has already started preparing a regulatory framework for satellite internet providers. Back in October 2023, the BTRC proposed guidelines allowing wholly foreign-owned companies, such as Starlink, to obtain licenses in Bangladesh. However, these guidelines are still awaiting final approval.
Moreover, the Ministry of Telecom has suggested offering a 25% rebate on fees for foreign satellite providers working with local operators. This move could benefit the partnership between BSCL and Starlink, making the collaboration even more promising.
In February, Chief Adviser Prof Yunus wrote a formal letter to Elon Musk, highlighting the importance of Starlink. He emphasized how Starlink can connect rural communities and empower young entrepreneurs. The government believes that satellite internet can bridge the digital divide and improve access to education in underserved areas.
Bangladesh’s Airports: Another Potential
SpaceX has recently discussed offering Starlink’s satellite internet services at airports in Bangladesh. A meeting took place between Richard H Griffith, SpaceX Global Engagement Advisor, and Air-Vice Marshal Manjur Kabir Bhuiyan, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB).
The focus of the meeting was how Starlink could improve passenger experience, especially with fast internet. This service could bring a better experience to travelers, enhancing the connectivity at the country’s airports.
In a related development, a partnership between BSCL and Starlink could reshape internet access in Bangladesh. This collaboration could greatly benefit rural areas, bringing advanced internet to underserved regions. The launch could soon bridge the digital gap, boosting the nation’s tech-driven growth.