Bangladesh's 1st satellite turns profitable after six years

Bangladesh Satellite-1 has recorded its first-ever profit in the fiscal year 2024–25, marking a major milestone six years after its launch. The turnaround comes despite the satellite operating at only half of its total capacity.

Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited (BSCL), the state-owned operator, reported a net profit of Tk38.35 crore for the year, following consistent losses since its inception. The audited financials were approved on 1 December.

Revenue climbed 9.24 percent year-on-year to Tk187.07 crore, driven primarily by bandwidth sales to broadcasters, DTH operators, radio stations, the armed forces, and various government and private agencies. Of the satellite's 40 transponders, 26 are currently active in commercial service.

BSCL Managing Director and CEO Imadur Rahman said several measures have helped stabilise the company, including forming specialised sales teams, upgrading service quality, tightening cost controls, and enhancing staff skills. Rahman added that the goal is to raise capacity utilisation from 50 percent to the global benchmark of around 80 percent.

The company expects a business boost from becoming an authorised reseller of Starlink services, a partnership Rahman believes could strengthen BSCL’s broader commercial strategy.

The financial improvement stems from gains on multiple fronts. BSCL posted its first operating profit of Tk2.61 crore, while income from fixed deposits and bank savings rose sharply, lifting non-operating profit by 58 percent to Tk58.06 crore. Monthly transponder and bandwidth fees—varying by service type and frequency band—remain the company’s primary revenue stream.

Beyond broadcasting, the satellite operator has been expanding into data connectivity, maritime and aviation communications, emergency response links, and customised solutions for public- and private-sector clients. Officials say diversifying services is critical for building long-term resilience.

To support future growth, BSCL has strengthened collaboration with universities, research institutions and technology firms to develop a pipeline of skilled satellite engineers and space technologists.

Launched in 2018 after BSCL’s formation in 2017, Bangladesh Satellite-1 marked the country’s entry into the space sector. With its first satellite now stabilising financially, the government is evaluating plans for Bangladesh Satellite-2, which could support advanced capabilities in weather forecasting, agriculture, disaster management, remote sensing and national security.