(KPL/VNA) Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung has signed a decision granting approval for a controlled pilot programme to deploy telecommunications services using low Earth orbit satellite technology, which is set to be carried out by the US’s Space Exploration Technologies Corporation (SpaceX).

This pilot programme will not impose any restrictions on foreign investors regarding ownership percentages or capital contributions, according to recently-signed Decision No. 659/QD-TTg.

Specific details of the pilot include a controlled pilot investment in telecommunications services involving satellite network infrastructure using low Earth orbit technology in Vietnam.

The programme will adhere to national security and defence principles, with no restrictions on foreign ownership, in line with Resolution No. 193/2025/QH15 passed by the National Assembly on February 19, 2025 regarding pilot mechanisms and policies that foster breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and the national digital transformation.

The issuance of permits for the use of radio frequencies and equipment to telecom service providers using low Earth orbit satellite technology will also be piloted, replacing the previous method of granting permits for individual terminal device users as specified in Resolution No. 193/2025/QH15.

The pilot programme will end before January 1, 2031.

The decision clarifies that the pilot phase for providing telecommunications services using low Earth orbit satellite technology will last five years, starting from the date when a company established in Vietnam by the pilot organisation receives its business licence. This trial period must conclude by January 1, 2031.

It specifies that both the pilot organisation and the company established in Vietnam must ensure compliance with all requirements and conditions for implementing the trial. This includes stipulations regarding the types of services offered, the scope of deployment, the maximum number of subscriptions, frequency usage, and crucially, national defence and security considerations.

The services to be piloted nationwide will include fixed satellite services such as Internet access and leased channels for mobile station transmission, and mobile satellite services like Internet access at sea and on aircraft.

The maximum number of subscriptions permitted for the pilot phase will be 600,000, which includes the total number of subscribers for the services provided by the Vietnam-based company and those reselling the services through local telecom providers.

KPL