Bangladesh to launch Bangabandhu Satellite-2 in 2023

Bangladesh is getting ready to launch its second satellite "Bangabandhu Satellite-2" by 2023.

 

Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL) signed an agreement with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) at its head office today.

 

BSCL Managing Director Shahriar Ahmed Chowdhury and PwC Global Space Practice Leader Luigi Scatteia signed the agreement on behalf of their respective sides.

 

Shahriar said the PwC would submit their recommendations within the next 90 days. "Then, we'll hand it over to the government," he said.

 

BSCL Chairman Shahjahan Mahmood said they can estimate cost after getting recommendations from the company. "We received 21 consulting companies' applications. Later, we selected PwC considering reasonable cost and good company," he added.

 

"Our work was delayed seven months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the satellite can be launched during the tenure of the incumbent government or by 2023," he added.  

 

Shahjahan said Bangladesh can reduce its dependency on foreign countries after launching the satellite and the country will be self-reliant in technology as well.

 

Post and Telecommunication Minister Mustafa Jabbar took part in the ceremony virtually. "When we launched Bangabandhu Satellite-1, many people criticised us. Now, the satellite is functioning properly. We're proud of it," he said.

 

Jabbar said the satellite-2 won't be launched only for commercial purpose. It will cover in the country's remote areas including char and coastal sites as well. "Our capacity will double after launching the second satellite," he said.

 

Chairman of Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) Shyam Sunder Sikder, PWC representative Suparna Roy, Secretary of Post and Telecommunication Md Afzal Hossain, among others, were present at the signing ceremony.