Starlink Internet Services is under scrutiny as it seeks approval from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and other stakeholders for its technical plan before launching services in the country.
Moreover, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication revealed that the PTA is currently assessing Starlink’s technical vulnerabilities, particularly concerning its data hosting practices and the use of laser technology for satellite-to-satellite communication without relying on Earth Gateways.
The final decision regarding the licensing of Starlink’s operations will depend on the outcomes of these assessments.
Starlink, a subsidiary of Starlink Holdings Netherlands BV, applied for a Long Distance and International (LDI) license on February 24, 2022, followed by a request for 14 Local Loop (LL) licenses on April 29, 2022.
In addition, the PTA’s regulations permit licensed Long Distance and International (LDI) and Local Loop (LL) operators to provide satellite-based telecommunication services.
Unlike traditional geostationary satellites operating at altitudes of 36,000 km, Starlink’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites operate at altitudes between 250 and 500 km, promising lower latency connectivity.
Read More: PlayStation network suffers major outage, affecting players worldwide
In addition, this advanced technology allows simultaneous communication between multiple ground stations and Starlink satellites, enhancing service delivery across the country.
During a recent Senate Standing Committee meeting chaired by Senator Kauda Babar, PTA officials highlighted that the technology is still evolving, with security concerns stalling further advancements. Senator Afnanullah Khan acknowledged the potential of Starlink to enhance internet access in remote areas, urging that security issues should not hinder progress.
To address these challenges, the committee established a sub-committee to engage with all stakeholders and facilitate a resolution. Concerns were raised regarding the use of Starlink technology in drone attacks in Ukraine and reported incidents in Afghanistan, further complicating its approval process. The sub-committee is tasked with investigating these issues and providing recommendations to the committee.
