Mongolia's digital revolution: Satellites and Starlink

A story from The Steppe #4

Mongolia's vast territory and open plains have long made it difficult to achieve comprehensive digital connectivity. But, through the use of modern technologies, the country is now able to accelerate its growth.

Earlier this year Mongolia achieved a significant milestone in its digital transformation with the launch of ONDO Space satellites OWLSAT-1 and OWLSAT-2 via SpaceX, and the introduction of Starlink services. The developments epitomize Mongolia's third-neighbour foreign policy, a policy aimed at strengthening ties internationally beyond Russia and China for developmental projects, including its domestic space economy.

Elon Musk’s Starlink services were launched in Mongolia in early March, after the country granted two licenses to SpaceX in 2023. SpaceX will operate as an internet service provider using low-orbit satellites and promises to expand high-speed internet access to millions of users throughout the country, who are often in remote, isolated regions. Mongolia is itself working on the Chinggis Satellite in partnership with French-Italian JV Thales Alenia Space, which will establish a national satellite system to crate existing gaps in connectivity.

With only 23.8% of Mongolia's territory currently covered by traditional telecommunications services, the nation has struggled to provide internet access to its residents, especially those in remote and nomadic areas. The partnership with Starlink is seen as a significant step in addressing these issues, increasing broadband connectivity, and assisting in critical infrastructure, such as improving disaster management, emergency response, and medical services. This is particularly important in Mongolia, a country prone to natural disasters such as floods, droughts, and wildfires. These disasters have become more frequent in recent years due to climate change, often exceeding the government's ability to respond, making it crucial to improve connectivity and disaster management capacities. 

Harnessing new technologies, Mongolia will attempt to leapfrog traditional solutions to rapidly accelerate its digital penetration. This, it hopes, will accelerate the country’s development and foster a more digitally capable future.