Elon Musk’s Starlink launched satellite internet services officially in Bangladesh, making it the second South Asian country after Bhutan to receive the technology. This development occurs at a time of growing military and diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan.
Although both bigger neighbours are yet to finalize their regulatory procedures, Bangladesh acted fast. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, the country’s leader since the removal of Sheikh Hasina from power, termed the agreement as a step toward unbroken digital independence.
Uninterrupted Internet in Uncertain Times
Muhammad Yunus emphasized that Starlink provides a politics-immune service. This guarantee comes after last year’s widespread protest against the Sheikh Hasina administration. At the time, Bangladesh officials blocked internet and SMS services to manage discontent. Today, Starlink’s satellite internet provides a resilient option.
He wrote in a Facebook post that this is a sustainable solution for paying customers to enjoy high-speed and high-quality internet. He termed the initiative as vital for digital security and future-proofing access to information.
How the Starlink Deal Took Shape ?
Muhammad Yunus initially approached Elon Musk in February this year. He requested Musk to introduce Starlink in Bangladesh and explained how it can benefit women and young people. He implored his government to cooperate with SpaceX closely and make every preparation within ninety working days.
The launch was in accordance with that deadline. Starlink confirmed availability in all of Bangladesh in a post to X: “Starlink’s fast, low-latency internet is now available in Bangladesh.”
Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency internet is now available in Bangladesh! 🛰️🇧🇩❤️ → https://t.co/Q0StscVtIP pic.twitter.com/J88dJC7rzR
— Starlink (@Starlink) May 20, 2025
What Will It Cost?
Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, a Yunus aide, said the details of pricing. Monthly subscriptions start at 4,200 taka, or about $35. Customers will also pay a setup equipment fee of 47,000 taka one-time. In Indian rupees, that is equal to about ₹2,990 per month.
India and Pakistan Still on Standby
Elon Musk’s Starlink currently has operations in more than 70 countries. It is aggressively pursuing quicker growth in emerging nations, particularly India. The Indian government, however, is yet to allocate spectrum to satellite communications companies such as Reliance Jio and Airtel-backed initiatives. Pakistan issued a temporary license to Starlink but has not done so for the actual launch. In all this, Bangladesh jumped ahead.
While India and Pakistan continue to be embroiled in local conflict, Bangladesh has made a bold leap in the digital age. With Starlink operational, the nation makes it clear that it aims to propel the South Asian region into future-proofed internet connectivity.
