The Armenian Public Services Regulatory Commission (PSRC) has officially approved two key applications submitted by STARLINK AM LLC ahead of schedule, informs Armenia’s Minister of High-Tech Industry, Mkhitar Hayrapetyan.
The approvals, issued on December 4 and 13, grant STARLINK AM LLC the following licenses in the Republic of Armenia:
- License to operate a public electronic communications network
- License to use radio frequency bands on a secondary basis for global satellite communication systems
With these licenses secured, Armenia is now set to enter the testing phase for Starlink’s satellite-based internet services. “The licensing and permits have been granted, and now we are entering the testing phase, which, hopefully, will be completed in the coming months, and the service will be fully operational,” stated Minister Hayrapetyan.
Zartonk Media asked Minister Mkhitar Hayrapetyan how Starlink will empower Armenians in rural areas and bridge the digital divide. In response, he said: “High-speed satellite internet will be accessible in any areas by enabling equal opportunity for education, remote work, and entrepreneurship. It will empower all communities to actively contribute in Armenia’s growing tech ecosystem, fostering innovation and economic growth.”
When asked about his vision for Armenia’s digital future and its role in the global tech and innovation landscape, Minister Hayrapetyan stated: “Edge technologies will drive the future of digital connectivity, enabling innovation, remote and agile collaboration, and tech growth.”
This development builds on the momentum sparked by Elon Musk’s message at the WCIT 2024 closing ceremony in Yerevan, Armenia, on October 7. During the event, Armenian-American entrepreneur Razmig Hovaghimian delivered a special statement from Musk, who expressed excitement about Starlink’s upcoming launch in Armenia. Musk’s message highlighted the potential for Starlink to significantly improve internet connectivity, especially in rural and underserved areas, while also underscoring broader ambitions for collaboration on projects related to space exploration and open AI.
“Hello everyone, I’m sorry I can’t make it to Yerevan this time, but hopefully next time in person. Excited about bringing Starlink to Armenia and working with the local tech community on some exciting projects”from space exploration to developing open and transparent AI that pushes the boundaries of human understanding,” Musk stated in his message.
With testing underway, Starlink’s rollout promises to enhance Armenia’s digital infrastructure, expand high-speed internet access ” especially in remote areas ” and unlock edge solutions for the country’s tech sector. The connection between Musk’s message and the licensing approvals positions Armenia as a key player in satellite connectivity and digital transformation.
