ISLAMABAD: The Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) andthe National Telecommunication Corporation (NTC) have signed a historicMemorandum of Understanding to deploy satellite-based broadband servicesacross Pakistan, marking a major step toward bridging the country’s digitaldivide.
The agreement, inked on November 25 at NTC headquarters, will allow NTC toutilise SUPARCO’s geostationary communication satellites, including therecently launched PakSat-MM1, to deliver reliable internet connectivity tofar-flung and under-served regions where terrestrial networks remaineconomically unfeasible.
Under the MoU, SUPARCO will leverage NTC’s extensive ground infrastructurewhile NTC gains access to high-throughput satellite capacity in C, Ku andKa bands, enabling applications such as e-governance, telemedicine,distance education and disaster management communication in remote areas.
Officials described the partnership as a cornerstone of the“Satellite-Powered Digital Pakistan” vision, noting that over 131 millionPakistanis still lack internet access and fibre penetration remains belowfive per cent in many rural districts.
The collaboration is expected to accelerate last-mile connectivity, enhancenational security communications and support economic growth by integratingsatellite backhaul with existing mobile and fixed-line networks.
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While the initiative has been welcomed as a vital domestic solution aheadof potential entry by global providers like Starlink, experts clarifiedthat the agreement builds upon existing satellite capabilities rather thanintroducing Pakistan’s very first satellite internet system.
