Quick Read:
SpaceX’s Starlink service is now officially operational in Armenia as of early 2025, offering high-speed, low-latency satellite internet across the country, including underserved rural areas. After years of planning, regulatory hurdles, and infrastructure setup, Starlink has launched with two residential plans, affordable equipment, and self-installation options. Here’s everything you need to know—from how it happened to what it means for Armenia’s digital future.
How Starlink Became Real in Armenia
Starlink’s journey to Armenia began with early expansion plans announced in 2022, when SpaceX expressed interest in providing global satellite internet coverage—including in mountainous and underserved regions like Armenia. At the time, traditional ISPs struggled to reach rural areas due to challenging terrain and underdeveloped infrastructure.
By 2023, discussions had intensified between SpaceX and Armenian authorities. However, rollout was delayed due to regulatory and logistical complexities.
The breakthrough came in 2024, when the Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia collaborated closely with SpaceX to navigate legal requirements. On December 19, 2024, a Forbes article revealed that the Armenian government had granted:
- A license to STARLINK AM LLC (SpaceX’s Armenian subsidiary) to operate a public electronic communications network.
- Radio frequency rights approved by the Public Services Regulatory Commission.
- Coordinated agreements to prevent spectrum interference.
In early 2025, Starlink officially launched in Armenia, with service now available nationwide. While Elon Musk was not present at the launch, a message was delivered by Armenian-American entrepreneur Razmig Hovaghimian, reinforcing Starlink’s commitment to Armenia’s tech ecosystem and its openness to future collaborations.
What Processes Took Place for Starlink’s Armenian Launch
Bringing Starlink to Armenia required several critical steps:
1. Government Partnerships
The Ministry of High-Tech Industry provided strategic support, enabling regulatory clearance, frequency coordination, and alignment with national tech goals.
2. Infrastructure Development
SpaceX deployed ground stations (gateways) in Armenia—essential nodes that connect Starlink’s satellites to the global internet. These stations ensure stable and localized internet access.
3. Testing Phase
Before public launch, Starlink ran extensive tests across Armenia’s diverse geography to evaluate signal stability, latency, and download/upload speeds—even in regions like Lori, Syunik, and Tavush.
4. Pre-Order Campaign
Following a first-come, first-served model, residents could place pre-orders through the official Starlink portal. A 30-day trial period, clear ID requirements, and shipping estimates (1–2 weeks) were part of the onboarding flow.
What Starlink Offers in Armenia
Starlink is designed to provide reliable, high-speed internet where traditional fiber or DSL fails to reach. As of March 2025, its Armenian offerings include:
Nationwide Coverage
Even remote villages benefit from Starlink’s satellite infrastructure. Starlink’s visibility map confirms full coverage in Armenia.
High-Speed Internet
- Download Speeds: 25–220 Mbps
- Upload Speeds: 5–20 Mbps
- Latency: 25–60 ms (ideal for real-time applications)
Flexible Plans
Starlink Armenia currently offers two residential plans:
| Plan | Monthly Cost (AMD) | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Lite | 18,000 | Unlimited deprioritized data (slower at peak) |
| Residential | 24,000 | Priority bandwidth, better peak-hour speeds |
First month charged upon activation or 30 days post-delivery.
Technical & Technological Details
Starlink leverages Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, which orbit ~550 km above the Earth—far closer than traditional satellites. This proximity allows for faster response times and lower latency.
Satellite Constellation
- Satellites launched (as of 2025): 5,000+
- Planned total: 12,000–40,000
- Orbits: LEO at ~550 km
Frequency Bands
- Operates in Ka and Ku bands
- Requires local frequency authorization (secured in Armenia)
User Equipment
All customers receive a Starlink Standard Kit:
- Satellite Dish (automatically aligns)
- Wi-Fi Router
- 15m Cable
- Mounting Base
Extra accessories like roof mounts and longer cables are optional.
Who Can Own and Use Starlink?
Starlink’s mission is digital inclusion. In Armenia, the following groups are eligible:
Individuals
Homeowners in rural or urban areas who need fast, stable internet.
Businesses
Small businesses, remote offices, and startups requiring bandwidth without wired infrastructure.
Government & NGOs
For disaster response, rural development, and educational initiatives.
Registration Requirements
- Valid Armenian address
- Matching ID and contact name (for regulatory reasons)
How Starlink Works
Here’s a simplified explanation:
- Satellite Dish Installation
- Set up in an open sky-facing area.
- Dish connects to satellites overhead.
- Signal Transmission
- Internet data travels from your device → dish → satellite → ground station → internet.
- Network Intelligence
- Satellites dynamically reroute traffic.
- App helps users align, monitor, and troubleshoot.
- Weather Resilience
- Starlink performs well in most conditions.
- Heavy rain or snow may cause minor disruptions.
Starlink Costs in Armenia
One-Time Payment
| Item | Price (AMD) |
|---|---|
| Starlink Standard Kit | 156,000 |
| Shipping & Handling | 39,000 |
| Total Due Today | 195,000 |
Monthly Plans
- Residential Lite: AMD 18,000
- Residential: AMD 24,000
No contracts. 30-day trial. Cancel anytime.
Optional Accessories
| Item | Price (AMD) | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Pivot Mount | 24,000 | For sloped roofs |
| Wall Mount | 22,000 | For exterior walls |
| Pipe Adapter | 11,000 | Attaches to existing poles |
| 45m Cable | 39,000 | For extended installations |
The Future of Starlink in Armenia
SpaceX plans continued development to enhance Armenian connectivity:
Ground Network Expansion
More ground stations mean reduced latency and improved reliability.
Advanced Satellite Deployment
Newer V2 Mini satellites offer higher capacity, beam steering, and better throughput.
Potential Economic Benefits
- Empowers Armenia’s tech startup ecosystem
- Enables remote education and telehealth
- Enhances connectivity in border villages and conflict zones
Competitive Landscape
Although competitors like OneWeb and local ISPs exist, Starlink’s latency, speed, and flexibility give it a first-mover advantage.
Real-World Parameters & Performance
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Download Speeds | 25–220 Mbps |
| Upload Speeds | 5–20 Mbps |
| Latency | 25–60 ms |
| Power Consumption | ~50–75W |
| Coverage | Nationwide in Armenia |
| Installation | Self-install or optional mounts |
| App Features | Obstruction tool, alerts, guides |
Final Thoughts
Starlink’s arrival in Armenia marks a major milestone in the nation’s digital transformation.
With affordable plans, rapid installation, and nationwide reach, it offers a vital solution for connectivity gaps in both rural and urban zones. Whether you’re a student in Syunik or a business owner in Yerevan, Starlink is now a powerful tool to stay online, connected, and competitive.
As regulatory frameworks evolve and technology improves, Starlink’s role in Armenia’s future will only grow stronger—fueling innovation, inclusion, and opportunity.
Source Verified
- Starlink Official Site – Armenia Order Portal
- Forbes, Dec 19, 2024
- Starlink App & Installation Guides
- Public Services Regulatory Commission of Armenia
- Ministry of High-Tech Industry of Armenia