Thailand Launches Nationwide Satellite Internet: Broadband Access Expanded
Bangkok—Thai telecommunications giant True Corporation is venturing into the space technology sector, announcing a strategic partnership with Chinese low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet provider GalaxySpace. This collaboration significantly advances Thailand’s digital infrastructure and promises to revolutionize connectivity nationwide, impacting daily life and economic competitiveness.
The agreement, a memorandum of understanding (MoU), outlines a comprehensive collaboration focusing on joint research, development, and validation of LEO satellite internet technology in Thailand. This partnership extends beyond technological exchange, encompassing convergent solutions integrating space-based and terrestrial networks, advancement of direct-to-cell (D2C) satellite communication technology, and crucial hardware development. The MoU also includes a thorough business case analysis to evaluate the potential applications of satellite technology in the Thai market.
True CEO Manat Manavutiveth emphasized LEO satellite technology’s transformative power, describing it as a catalyst for global social and economic change. He underlined True’s commitment to bolstering Thailand’s digital telecom infrastructure, highlighting improved quality of life for citizens, enhanced business competitiveness, and a strengthened digital economy. Mr. Manavutiveth expressed optimism that the True-GalaxySpace collaboration will yield groundbreaking LEO satellite services benefiting the Thai people and nation.
For GalaxySpace, this partnership represents strategic global expansion and validation of its LEO technology. Xu Ming, GalaxySpace’s founder, chairman, and CEO, highlighted the company’s innovation, referencing the successful deployment of «Mini Spider,» China’s first LEO broadband communication test constellation. He noted successful overseas LEO broadband satellite internet trials in Thailand as early as March 2024, solidifying their commitment to the region. Mr. Xu identified Thailand’s dynamic business environment and substantial market potential as key factors in selecting it as a priority Southeast Asian market.
The collaboration aims to accelerate research and service validation of D2C satellite technology, paving the way for its application across various sectors—maritime, agriculture, education, and connected vehicles—in Thailand and Southeast Asia. This expansion promises significant industry upgrades, enhancing efficiency and connectivity in key economic areas.
Mr. Xu underscored the commercial space industry’s dynamic nature and its potential to fuel global economic growth through innovation. The True-GalaxySpace partnership exemplifies this sector’s immense growth potential and promising future. This collaboration promises to enhance connectivity, foster innovation, and drive economic growth, positioning Thailand at the forefront of the space technology revolution. The partnership demonstrates a growing trend of international collaboration in the space industry and highlights the increasing accessibility and potential of space-based solutions for bridging the digital divide and fostering economic development.
