Bangladesh’s first communication satellite, Bangladesh Satellite One, has recorded its first ever profit six years after launch. The satellite had been operating at a loss since 2018, but in the 2024 to 2025 financial year it generated a net profit of 38.35 crore taka, according to audited accounts approved at the company’s board meeting on December 1.
The state owned Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited reported that revenue rose 9.24 percent from the previous year to reach 187.07 crore taka. Most of this income came from selling bandwidth to television channels, radio stations, DTH operators, the armed forces and various public and private organisations. Of the satellite’s 40 transponders, 26 are currently active for commercial use.
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Company officials said the profit turnaround reflects better market positioning and improved operational discipline. A new commercial team has been formed, investments have been made to improve service quality, and stricter financial management has been introduced. Even so, the satellite is operating at only 50 percent of its total capacity. Globally, a satellite is considered successful when 80 percent of its capacity is used. BSCL aims to reach that level in the coming years.
The company sees strong potential in becoming an approved reseller for Starlink services, a move that could significantly strengthen its market presence if managed properly.
Operational profit also improved for the first time, reaching 2.61 crore taka. Non operational income, such as earnings from fixed deposits and bank savings, jumped 58 percent to 58.06 crore taka, playing a key role in boosting overall net profit. BSCL charges monthly fees for transponder and bandwidth usage, depending on service type and frequency band.
Beyond broadcasting services, the company is expanding into satellite based data connectivity, maritime and aviation communication, emergency communication and customised solutions for public and private sector clients. Officials say diversifying services is essential for building a sustainable revenue base.
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To strengthen future capacity, BSCL has started collaborating with universities, research institutes and technology firms to develop skilled satellite engineers and space technology experts.
BSCL was established in 2017 under the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications, and began full commercial operations after the launch of Bangladesh Satellite One in 2018. The government is already assessing feasibility for Bangladesh Satellite Two, which could support advanced services in weather forecasting, agriculture, disaster management, remote sensing and national security.