The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has decided to issue a license for the provision of fixed satellite services.
A draft for the Fixed Satellite Services (FSS) license has been prepared by PTA, which will allow the establishment of fixed earth stations and fixed gateway earth stations. Under the FSS license, the construction of fixed terminal earth stations will also be permitted.
According to the draft, this service can only be provided through a registered satellite operator, and the use of public switched terrestrial networks and mobile satellite services will be prohibited.
The license will not allow satellite-based services for radio and TV broadcasting, ships, aircraft, and vehicles. Compliance with the PTA Act, regulations, and the Pakistan Space Activities Rules 2024 will be mandatory.
The license term is set at 15 years, and the license holder must begin services within 18 months. The initial fee for the fixed satellite services license has been set at $500,000.
The license holder must ensure the protection of consumer data and a transparent billing system.
PTA has initiated public consultation on the draft of the FSS license and has sought feedback from stakeholders by February 14.
