Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, is currently unavailable in Serbia, Montenegr, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it is expected to launch in these countries by 2025. This could provide new digital connectivity opportunities, especially in rural areas.
Dr. Miloš Jovanović, an expert on telecommunications, explains that Starlink offers significant advantages in remote areas due to its ability to provide fast and reliable internet without requiring physical infrastructure. This could be particularly beneficial for regions with limited or no internet access through traditional networks. However, challenges include weather interference, potential network congestion as more users join, and the high initial costs of the service.
Starlink’s costs, including equipment and a monthly subscription, are higher than traditional providers, which may limit its widespread adoption. Jovanović does not expect a major disruption in the market, especially since existing providers offer competitive services at lower prices.
Satellite internet is not a new technology and has been used for years in industries like aviation and maritime. Starlink could enhance access to digital services in remote areas, contributing to business, education, and healthcare, particularly through telemedicine.
However, security concerns regarding reliance on foreign infrastructure for internet access are also a consideration. Starlink has proven to have strategic value, notably in supporting military operations, such as in Ukraine, by providing stable communication in areas with destroyed infrastructure.
