Starlink top management officially inaugurates service in Bangladesh through kit deliveries

US-based satellite internet service provider Starlink, owned by Elon Musk's aerospace technology company SpaceX, has officially launched its operation in Bangladesh through the delivery of its kits.

The formal announcement came during a press conference held today (18 July) at a city hotel in Dhaka.

Lauren Dreyer, vice president of SpaceX, and Richard Griffiths, global engagement consultant for the company, were present on the occasion.

Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, special assistant to the chief adviser, who is also in charge of the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, was also present.

"Today, the top management of Starlink has come to Bangladesh to officially inaugurate the service. Previously, we conducted a soft launch during which pre-orders were taken. Now, the kits are being delivered," said Faiz.

He recalled that exactly one year ago, on this same date, a nationwide internet shutdown was imposed in the wake of the July Uprising, followed by a massive crackdown.

"Today, on its anniversary, we vow that the government will never again shut down the internet," he said, adding, "Through the launch of Starlink, we are sending a clear message that no one should dare disconnect our people from the rest of the world."

Faiz added that uninterrupted internet is not just a privilege, it is a right and emphasised that Starlink will ensure connectivity across every corner of Bangladesh, particularly in remote and rural areas.

"Today, Bangladesh is connected, and it will never be disconnected again," he said.

Lauren Dreyer, who joined SpaceX nearly two decades ago and now leads Starlink's global operations and impact initiatives, commended the Government of Bangladesh for its bold, visionary leadership in bringing next-generation connectivity to its people.

"While many nations deliberate, Bangladesh acted," Dreyer said. "By embracing connectivity as a foundation for human potential, you have positioned your nation as a model for others to follow."

She highlighted the speed and decisiveness of the government, noting that within just a few months of initial dialogue, Starlink service had moved from discussion to deployment.

Approvals were finalised by May, and the first Bangladeshi customers were online shortly thereafter.

"This is not just about satellites," Dreyer said. "We are launching opportunities—opportunities for remote learning, telemedicine, digital entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth."

She also acknowledged the role of local partners including Felicity IDC and Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited, emphasising that long-term success depends on collaboration between global innovators and national stakeholders.

"The future we are building together," Dreyer noted, "belongs to every person in Bangladesh who will now have access to the boundless opportunities that connectivity provides."

Starlink, currently active in nearly 150 countries and regions, offers high-speed satellite internet that is resilient, scalable, and independent of ground infrastructure.

Shish Haider Chowdhury, secretary of the ICT Division; Jahirul Islam, secretary of the Posts and Telecommunications Division; and Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to the chief adviser were also present at the press conference.