What Did Elon Musk Say About Starlink in Pakistan?

Elon Musk has previously acknowledged Starlink’s interest in expanding to Pakistan. In early January, he confirmed that Starlink had applied to launch internet services in Pakistan and was awaiting government approval.

Possibilities of Starlink Coming to Pakistan

The granting of the temporary NOC suggests a high possibility of Starlink commencing operations in Pakistan.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) is expected to oversee compliance with fee payments and other licensing requirements, paving the way for a formal launch.

Is Elon Musk Interested in Pakistan?

Elon Musk’s interest in expanding Starlink’s global footprint includes markets like Pakistan. The company’s application for operating licenses and recent interactions with Pakistani regulatory bodies reflect a strategic interest in the region.

Will Starlink Launch in Pakistan?

Based on the current developments, it is plausible that Starlink will launch its services in Pakistan in the near future. The temporary NOC is a precursor to obtaining a formal license from the PTA, which is expected to be issued within the next four weeks.

Starlink Satellite Coverage in Pakistan

Starlink’s network of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites is designed to provide global coverage, including regions like Pakistan. This satellite constellation aims to deliver high-speed internet services even in remote and rural areas, addressing connectivity challenges prevalent in such regions.

How Many Satellites Does Starlink Have?

According to my research, as of March 2025, Starlink has launched over 5,500 satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). SpaceX continues to expand its satellite network, with plans to deploy up to 42,000 satellites in the coming years to enhance global coverage.

Starlink’s satellite constellation is the largest of its kind, surpassing all other satellite internet providers combined.

The network operates at an altitude of 550 km, significantly lower than traditional geostationary satellites, reducing latency and improving internet performance.

This massive fleet is crucial for providing high-speed, low-latency internet to users worldwide, including remote and rural areas where traditional broadband is unreliable or unavailable.

If Starlink officially launches in Pakistan, it will benefit from this extensive satellite network to offer reliable internet connectivity across the country.

Starlink Pricing in Pakistan

According to my research, Starlink’s pricing may pose a challenge for widespread adoption among individual consumers in Pakistan.

The monthly subscription cost is expected to be around PKR 25,000 ($90-$100 USD), with a one-time hardware cost ranging between $400-$500 USD (approximately PKR 112,000-140,000).

Starlink Internet Speed

Starlink promises high-speed internet with low latency, capable of supporting activities like streaming, video calls, online gaming, and remote working. Users can expect download speeds over 100 Mbps, which is a significant improvement over traditional satellite internet services.

Conclusion

In my opinion, the introduction of Starlink in Pakistan could revolutionize the country’s internet landscape, particularly in areas where traditional ISPs have struggled to provide reliable services.

However, the pricing strategy will be crucial in determining the extent of its adoption among the general population.

As the situation develops, it will be interesting to see how Starlink adapts its offerings to cater to the Pakistani market.