By Levina

Pakistan (Army) is gearing up to launch a new communication satellite, marking a significant step in the country’s space capabilities. Reports suggest that the launch could happen as early as May 30th, albeit the SUPRACO website indicates a target date of July. SUPRACO, the entity overseeing this project, has been led by Major General-level officers from the Pakistan Army since 2001, making it evident that the military has a central role in driving Pakistan’s space initiatives. However, in 2023, SUPRACO saw a notable shift with the appointment of its first civilian head, Muhammad Yousuf Khan, a civilian scientist. The new appointment still doesn’t change the fact that any launch by SUPRACO will most definitely have military objectives to achieve.

Collaborative Efforts with China

Pakistan’s space journey has been significantly supported by China, a key ally. Just a few days ago, China assisted Pakistan in launching the iCube-Qamar, a lunar mission that represents a monumental achievement for Pakistan’s space program which was in cold storage since decades. It has not been revealed if China and pakistan had any financial and technological arrangements for this mission.

Despite the strong partnership with China, the Pakistan Army is keen on achieving greater autonomy in space technology. Currently, Pakistan benefits from access to China’s Beidou Navigation Satellite System, which provides crucial navigation and communication services. However, the launch of the upcoming communication satellite is a clear indicator of Pakistan’s aspirations to develop an independent space infrastructure. Irony is– MM1 is being manufactured in China, and not in Pakistan.

The planned satellite launch is more than just a technological advancement; it carries strategic implications. Enhanced communication capabilities are crucial for military operations, disaster management, and national security. By investing in its own satellite systems, Pakistan aims to strengthen its sovereignty in space, ensuring secure and reliable communication channels that are free from external influences, other than China. Pakistan clearly aims to be self-reliant, but whether Pakistan Army can achieve it or not remains to be seen.

As the launch date approaches, all eyes will be on Pakistan, anticipating this leap forward in its space journey. Being a Chinese product, MM1’s performance can be accessed only after it gets launched”safely”.