Starlink dominance drives global satellite connectivity surge

Global satellite connectivity capacity has seen massive growth since 2022, driven by increased demand for military applications such as communication and the control of unmanned aerial vehicles. According to data from consulting firm Novaspace, global satellite capacity rose to 15 Tb/s in 2022 and is projected to reach between 120–130 Tb/s this year.

Experts note that the United States, primarily through the Starlink system, currently holds a dominant position, providing 93 percent of the world's satellite throughput. Piotr Mierzejewski, president of Thorium Space, describes Starlink as a global monopolist that defines market conditions and pricing. This dominance places European companies at a disadvantage in the global race against the U.S., China, and India.

The European Commission observes that the satellite market is undergoing a significant transformation due to declining costs in satellite production and orbital launches, as well as the growing importance of satellite technology for digital connectivity in underserved areas.