Elon Musk-owned satellite internet service Starlink is now reportedly available throughout Kuwait. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, with Kuwait grappling with the direct impact of the ongoing US-Israel war with Iran. Tehran has targeted critical infrastructure, including parts of Kuwait International Airport, in response to US-Israeli attacks on Iran.Satellite systems like Starlink can reduce downtime and maintain connectivity for residents and businesses. In areas where terrestrial networks are damaged or overloaded, satellites can serve as a reliable alternative.
Musk shared the news on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “Starlink is now available in Kuwait!” The official Starlink X account also posted a coverage map showing that the entire country is under the network. Residents can now purchase Starlink kits online. The rollout appears to address the growing connectivity concerns in the country.
How Kuwaitis can access Starlink through the official website
- Kuwait users can sign up for Starlink through the official website.
- On the official Starlink website, select the service address and find the appropriate pricing plan.
- Accordingly, Kuwait pricing is listed below: (Approximately)
- The residential scheme reportedly costs KWD 31 per month, which is approximately Rs 9,330.
- The price of mini kit is 92 KWD i.e. around Rs 27,700.
- The standard kit is reportedly 122 KWD, which ranges from around Rs 36,700 to Rs 38,600.
New customers are reportedly given the first month free. Kuwait experienced internet disruptions earlier this month, although the Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA) said the issues were not linked to the ongoing conflict, Kuwait Times reports.
What is Starlink and how does it work
Starlink Internet service is satellite-based and relies on Internet connections provided by thousands of satellites in low Earth orbit. The satellites are at an altitude of about 550 kilometers from the Earth.The main purpose of Internet service is to provide high-speed Internet access in remote areas or underserved areas. Experts say the internet service can provide secure internet connections even in areas where infrastructure may be affected due to conflict.The timing of Starlink’s launch appears to be critical. Kuwait has been indirectly affected by military activity related to the US–Israel–Iran conflict. Satellite Internet can provide a more stable connection than traditional infrastructure, which can be vulnerable to attacks or technical failures.