Introduction
Starlink in Mongolia, a project by SpaceX, has recently expanded its services to Mongolia, marking a significant milestone in the country’s digital transformation journey. This article explores the implications of this development and what it means for Mongolia’s digital future.
What is Starlink?
Starlink is a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites developed by SpaceX, aiming to provide high-speed, low-latency internet access to anyone, anywhere on the planet⁴. The service is designed to reach even the most remote locations, making streaming, video calls, online gaming, and remote working possible¹².
Starlink in Mongolia
On July 6, the Communications Regulatory Commission of Mongolia approved two licenses for Starlink to operate in the country. This agreement between the government of Mongolia and SpaceX will help diversify investments and internet service providers for millions of users across Mongolia.
The recent expansion of Starlink into Mongolia is a part of the country’s broader digitalization push. Mongolia’s long-term development plan, Vision 2050, has created a roadmap for the country to utilize modern digital tools and technology despite its landlocked geography.
Impact on Digital Transformation
The introduction of Starlink in Mongolia is expected to augment the country’s overall digital transformation efforts. According to the World Bank, 84 percent of Mongolians were using the internet in 2021, compared to just 12 percent in 2011. The SpaceX-Mongolia agreement has the potential to further increase internet accessibility, especially in remote locations.
Minister of Digital Development and Communication, Uchral Nyam-Osor, stated that the fiber optic cable network already covers a wide range of high-speed internet throughout Mongolia. The introduction of Starlink technology will provide more opportunities for people in remote locations, such as herdsmen, farmers, entrepreneurs, and miners living and working in every corner of the vast country.
Conclusion on Starlink in Mongolia
The arrival of Starlink in Mongolia represents a significant step towards achieving the country’s digital transformation goals. By providing high-speed internet access to even the most remote areas, Starlink is not only diversifying Mongolia’s internet service providers but also contributing to the country’s vision of becoming a fully digital nation. As the world becomes increasingly connected, initiatives like Starlink are crucial in ensuring that no one is left behind in the digital revolution..
