Pakistan’s new HTS satellite internet, powered by PAKSAT-MM1, is bridging the nation’s digital divide, unlocking economic opportunities, and ensuring secure, high-speed connectivity for even the remotest regions.

PAKSAT’s High Throughput Satellite (HTS) Internet service is bringing high-speed connectivity to Pakistan’s most remote regions, offering a reliable digital lifeline that fuels economic growth and strengthens national security.
In an era where internet access is a fundamental necessity, more than half of Pakistan’s population—54.3 percent—remains without high-speed internet. Decades of investment in terrestrial infrastructure, including over 55,000 base transceiver stations and 150,000 kilometers of fiber-optic networks, have yet to bridge the gap. Vast stretches of the country remain unconnected, cutting millions off from economic, educational, and technological opportunities.

In an era where internet access is a fundamental necessity, more than half of Pakistan’s population—54.3 percent—remains without high-speed internet. Decades of investment in terrestrial infrastructure, including over 55,000 base transceiver stations and 150,000 kilometers of fiber-optic networks, have yet to bridge the gap. 

PAKSAT’s HTS service is stepping in to change that, extending fast and reliable internet to the farthest corners of the country, ensuring that no region is left behind in the digital age.
Pakistan’s government is advancing its vision of digital empowerment through cutting-edge information and communications technology (ICT) initiatives. At the heart of this effort is the HTS Internet service, powered by the Pakistan Multi-Mission Communication Satellite (PAKSAT-MM1), which is set to revolutionize connectivity across the country—particularly in its most remote and underserved regions.
In a strategic move to reduce reliance on foreign Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite networks, Pakistan’s National Space Agency has introduced HTS as a homegrown alternative. Unlike LEO-based systems—such as Starlink, OneWeb, and Amazon’s Kuiper—PAKSAT’s HTS service operates via an advanced geostationary satellite, ensuring expansive, uninterrupted coverage nationwide. This positions PAKSAT-MM1 as a transformative solution for bridging Pakistan’s digital divide, reaching areas where terrestrial infrastructure has struggled to deliver.
Pakistan’s HTS Internet is doing more than just connecting people—it is fueling the country’s growing tech sector. As startups, freelancers, and IT hubs expand at an unprecedented pace, even the most remote regions are becoming part of this digital transformation. From rugged mountains to vast oceans, from military installations to border regions, PAKSAT’s HTS service is delivering secure and reliable connectivity where traditional networks falter. 
A Game-Changer for Pakistan
The HTS Internet Service offered by PAKSAT-MM1 is a beacon of hope for rural and remote areas where traditional internet infrastructure is either inaccessible or prohibitively expensive. Compact and efficient HTS terminals (measuring 0.98–1.2 meters) enable communities to access broadband services through easy and quick deployment, without requiring extensive ground infrastructure.
PAKSAT's HTS service, with high data rates of up to 160 Mbps and targeted beams, ensures consistent internet quality, making it ideal for telecommunications, e-commerce, and e-learning, hence empowering individuals and businesses by providing high-speed internet access, driving economic growth, and bridging the digital divide.
Beyond personal use, HTS Internet serves as a lifeline for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), including IT and telecom service providers. Traditionally, satellite communication services have been deployed as a backup for ICT infrastructure and cellular backhauling. However, with the advent of HTS, consumers can now directly benefit from satellite internet anywhere and everywhere. Initially utilized by government and enterprise sectors, PAKSAT HTS is set to expand to the general public soon. While communities stand to benefit, entrepreneurs can access global markets, promote local products, and scale their businesses, making them key contributors to Pakistan's economy.
A Substitute for LEO Constellations: PAKSAT’s Edge
LEO satellites promise low latency and high-speed connectivity, but their implementation faces several challenges. These include the requirement for a constellation of satellites to ensure adequate coverage, the need for expensive tracking terminals due to complex handovers between satellites, weak reception in rugged terrains caused by varying view angles, and network congestion.
In contrast, PAKSAT-MM1's HTS service offers nationwide coverage with just one satellite, significantly reducing capital costs for both the Government of Pakistan and end users compared to traditional C-band and Ku-band VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) systems.
As a state-owned satellite, PAKSAT-MM1 holds a competitive edge as a viable alternative to global service providers, ensuring data privacy and security—something international LEO service providers cannot guarantee. Additionally, PAKSAT’s technical support teams are available 24/7, stationed in major cities across the country to cater to the needs of geographically dispersed customers. Foreign LEO competitors may lack on-ground technical support, making PAKSAT a more reliable service provider and the preferred choice for users.
Innovative Beginning: PAKSAT’s Journey of Excellence
PAKSAT’s journey began in 2011 with the launch of PAKSAT-1R, laying the foundation for Pakistan’s satellite communications. Over the years, it has evolved to keep pace with the demands of an increasingly digital world. The launch of PAKSAT-MM1 in May 2024 marked a significant leap forward, introducing advanced C, Ku, Ka, and L-band (SBAS) capabilities to support a wide range of applications across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
With more than 120 TV channels distributed via its network, PAKSAT has emerged as a vital force in media and communications, strengthening Pakistan’s presence in the global satellite industry. Its commitment to technological advancement aligns with the Digital Pakistan initiative, bridging the divide between urban centers and remote regions through seamless satellite connectivity.
PAKSAT’s HTS technology has the power to bridge the digital divide, enhance education and healthcare, transform industries like agriculture and disaster management, and drive economic growth—ushering in a new era of nationwide connectivity and progress.
Bridging Gaps in Education and Healthcare. PAKSAT’s HTS technology is more than just high-speed connectivity—it’s a catalyst for progress. In education, it powers virtual classrooms, e-libraries, and online learning platforms, ensuring that students in remote areas have the same opportunities as those in urban centers. With HTS, teachers in far-flung schools can access professional training and digital resources, narrowing the educational divide.
In healthcare, HTS internet enables telemedicine, linking rural patients with specialists in major cities. Real-time consultations and remote diagnostics bring critical medical expertise to underserved communities, transforming healthcare accessibility. By revolutionizing education and healthcare, PAKSAT’s HTS service is shaping a more connected and equitable future.
Transforming Agriculture, Disaster Response, and Beyond. PAKSAT’s HTS service is unlocking new possibilities across industries, from agriculture to emergency management. For farmers, HTS-powered connectivity can provides real-time weather updates, crop health monitoring, and market insights, enhancing productivity and food security.
In disaster-prone areas, HTS can play a critical role in emergency response, enabling rapid coordination of relief efforts and life-saving operations. Beyond this, the technology can supports tourism, mining, oil exploration, defense, maritime operations, aviation, and surveillance—redefining connectivity across sectors. Keeping the above in view, PAKSAT has signed an agreement with the Forest, Wildlife, and Environment Department to provide satellite internet services, ensuring digital transformation in their offices in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Driving Economic Growth Through Digital Inclusion. As Pakistan embraces the digital revolution, HTS Internet is fueling an e-commerce boom. Remote communities can now connect with online marketplaces, linking small businesses to national and global buyers. By expanding digital access, PAKSAT’s HTS service is fostering entrepreneurship, creating new economic opportunities, and bridging the urban-rural divide.
HTS and the Future of Digital Pakistan
PAKSAT's HTS internet service is a reflection of Pakistan's potential to lead in space technology and digital connectivity. By providing high-speed internet to millions, PAKSAT is not just competing globally but also setting a benchmark for inclusive growth.
As Pakistan embraces this transformative technology, the vision of a connected and prosperous nation is becoming a reality. More than just an internet service, PAKSAT HTS is a gateway to opportunity, progress, and a brighter future for all.
The ripple effects of HTS connectivity are evident, from urban IT hubs to rural farmlands. As more sectors integrate satellite-enabled solutions, Pakistan’s journey toward a sustainable digital future accelerates, paving the way for future generations to drive innovation and progress.

The author is an engineer, as well as an IT and technical expert. He can be reached at
[email protected]