Controlled pilot for telecommunications services using low earth orbit satellite technology in Vietnam

Controlled pilot for telecommunications services using low earth orbit satellite technology in Vietnam

(1) The controlled pilot implementation of telecommunication services using low-orbit satellite technology is regulated as follows:

- The controlled pilot for investment and business in telecommunication services with network infrastructure, including satellite telecommunication networks using low-orbit satellite technology in Vietnam, ensures the principles of national defense and security, without limiting the ownership percentage, capital contribution ratio, or contribution percentage of foreign investors;

- The pilot includes the granting of frequency and radio equipment use licenses for enterprises providing telecommunication services using low-orbit satellite technology as a replacement for end-user terminal equipment frequency and radio license issuance;

- The pilot activities specified in points a and b of this section are decided by the Prime Minister of the Government of Vietnam, but are not to exceed 5 years. The pilot must conclude before January 1, 2031.

(2) Based on the requirements for socio-economic development and ensuring national defense and security, the Prime Minister of the Government of Vietnam decides on the pilot based on each specific project, including: type of telecommunication service, limits on deployment scope, maximum subscriber limits, frequency usage, conditions for pilot termination, requirements for ensuring national defense, security, and other necessary conditions to ensure national interests.

(3) The Ministry of Science and Technology shall issue, amend, supplement, or revoke telecommunication service business licenses for enterprises as stipulated in sections 1 and 2 and pursuant to telecommunication laws; guide, implement the issuance, amendment, supplementation, or revocation of frequency and radio equipment use licenses for enterprises providing telecommunication services using low-orbit satellite technology.

The fee rates and charges for radio frequency usage applicable to enterprises licensed for the pilot are in accordance with current regulations on licensing fees for radio frequency and equipment use, as well as fees for radio frequency usage. The fee for radio frequency usage is calculated based on the time of frequency usage and the actual number of terminal devices using the services as reported by the enterprise.

(4) The Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Public Security shall organize and implement measures to inspect and control the pilot activities to ensure national defense and security.

Refer to more details at Resolution 193/2025/QH15 dated February 19, 2025.

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