Chunghwa Telecom has made a significant leap in Taiwan’s technological landscape by securing the nation’s first commercial license for low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services, utilizing Eutelsat OneWeb technology. This achievement marks a crucial move in Taiwan’s quest for enhanced network resilience and autonomy.
Approved by Taiwan’s regulatory authorities, the new license enables Chunghwa Telecom to offer satellite-based services to government agencies and various industries. The company views this approval as a fundamental step in constructing a robust, multi-orbit communications infrastructure that can meet the increasing demand for innovative connectivity solutions.
The journey to this groundbreaking license began in December 2023 when Chunghwa Telecom signed a contract with the UK-based Eutelsat OneWeb. The approval process demanded perseverance as the company navigated through multiple regulatory requirements, including frequency authorizations and compliance checks.
“We are honored to be the first company in Taiwan to obtain a commercial license for OneWeb’s LEO satellites. This achievement underscores the technical prowess of our satellite networks,” expressed Jia Zhongyong, General Manager of Chunghwa Telecom’s Network Technology Branch. With this license, Chunghwa Telecom is further positioned to cater to the increasing needs of various sectors.
In collaboration with Eutelsat OneWeb, Chunghwa Telecom plans to create a satellite service terminal testing center in Taiwan. This facility aims to unify domestic and international satellite resources, propelling the rapid deployment of next-generation services.
Overseeing this initiative, Chunghwa Telecom Chair, Chien Chih-Cheng, assured continued investment in both high- and low-orbit satellite systems to fortify Taiwan’s telecommunications infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of providing secure backup services for both public agencies and private enterprises, especially in light of recent submarine cable disruptions near Taiwan that raised alarms about network vulnerabilities.
This innovative license plays into a broader strategy aimed at enhancing Taiwan’s communication resilience. Earlier this April, Chunghwa Telecom entered a USD 115-million agreement with U.S.-based Astranis Space Technologies to acquire a geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellite, set for launch by the end of 2025. Once operational, it will deliver full bandwidth capacity starting in 2026.
Moreover, Chunghwa Telecom is actively engaging with other global satellite innovators. While preliminary discussions have taken place with Amazon’s Kuiper and Canada’s Telesat, they have yet to solidify any partnerships. The company also explored collaboration with Starlink; however, regulatory restrictions have hindered progress with Elon Musk’s venture.
Another ambitious project sees Chunghwa Telecom committing TWD 7 billion (USD 228 million) toward a new satellite through its joint venture with Singapore’s Singtel. Once it enters geosynchronous orbit in 2027, this satellite will significantly enhance the company’s multi-orbit satellite service offerings. Who knew connectivity could be so dynamic?
Why is this license significant for Chunghwa Telecom?
This license represents a breakthrough for Chunghwa Telecom, allowing the company to offer advanced satellite services that bolster Taiwan’s network infrastructure.
What are the future plans following this license approval?
Chunghwa Telecom plans to establish a satellite service terminal testing center and continue investing in high- and low-orbit satellite systems to enhance connectivity services for both public and private sectors.
What challenges has Chunghwa Telecom faced in forming partnerships with other satellite providers?
While engaging with global players like Starlink and others, regulatory restrictions have posed challenges, limiting certain potential collaborations.
