Elon Musk’s Vision for Global Internet: What’s Next for Starlink in Bangladesh

Earlier this year, Starlink representatives visited Bangladesh to discuss potential collaborations with the ICT Division regarding the launch of its services in the country. But what makes Starlink so popular, and how could it transform Bangladesh’s internet landscape? Let’s take a closer look.

What is Starlink?

Starlink is a satellite-based broadband service operated by SpaceX. It uses a network of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites positioned around 550 kilometers above Earth to deliver high-speed internet globally. Unlike traditional broadband, which relies on fiber-optic cables and mobile towers, Starlink only requires a satellite dish and a clear sky view, making it ideal for remote and underserved regions.

Since its first satellite launch in 2019, Starlink has seen rapid expansion, currently operating in over 60 countries with more than 2 million active users. Its LEO-based satellites offer lower latency and faster speeds than traditional geostationary satellites, giving it a competitive edge in the global consumer satellite market.

Starlink’s Role in Geopolitics

In recent years, Starlink has played a significant role in geopolitics:

• During the Israel-Palestine conflict, Israel stated that Starlink could only operate in Gaza with their approval.
• In the Russia-Ukraine war, Starlink provided critical internet services to support communications and military operations in Ukraine.

These developments highlight how Starlink’s presence can influence global affairs, and its entry into Bangladesh will likely involve similar strategic considerations.

What Starlink Means for Bangladesh

For rural and remote regions of Bangladesh, where fiber-optic broadband and strong mobile internet signals are unavailable or unreliable, Starlink presents a game-changing opportunity:

• Isolated villages, islands, and disaster-prone coastal areas could access reliable internet.
• Online education, e-commerce, and telemedicine services could see significant improvements, empowering communities.

Reliable Connectivity in Emergencies

Unlike traditional fiber and mobile networks, which are vulnerable to weather damage, power outages, and natural disasters, Starlink’s satellite-based system can remain operational, ensuring:

• Uninterrupted communication during cyclones and floods.
• Support for emergency response teams with seamless internet access.

Boosting Competition in the Internet Market

Currently, Bangladesh’s internet market is dominated by local broadband providers and mobile operators. If Starlink enters, it could increase competition, pushing local providers to improve services and reduce prices. However, there are concerns about security, regulation, and the impact on local ISPs.

Challenges: The High Cost of Starlink in Bangladesh

While Starlink offers cutting-edge technology, the cost is a major barrier for most Bangladeshis:

• $120/month (৳13,500) is far higher than standard broadband or mobile data costs in Bangladesh.
• $599 (৳67,000) for the setup kit makes it inaccessible for average households.

In contrast, local broadband services offer unlimited data for as low as ৳1,000–৳3,000 ($9–$28) per month.

Emdadul Hoque, President of the Internet Service Providers Association of Bangladesh (ISPAB), stated:
“We welcome new technology, but Bangladesh already has strong broadband coverage. The government should assess the impact of Starlink on security and local investors before making a decision.”

Key Considerations Before Adoption

• ✅ Affordability – Can it be priced competitively for Bangladeshis?
• ✅ Digital Literacy – Can users in rural areas easily adopt satellite-based internet?
• ✅ Regulations – How will the Bangladesh government regulate Starlink’s operations?
• ✅ Environmental Concerns – Will an increase in satellites cause long-term issues?

Final Thoughts: Should Bangladesh Embrace Starlink?

Starlink represents a significant shift in global internet access, offering a lifeline to rural areas, emergency resilience, and innovation in connectivity. However, for Bangladesh, its high costs, regulatory challenges, and potential impact on local ISPs must be carefully evaluated. Starlink has the potential to bridge Bangladesh’s digital divide, but responsible and equitable implementation will be key to its success.