Lynk Global, the world’s leading satellite-direct-to-standard-phone (‘sat2phone’) telecoms provider, and Telikom, a prominent mobile operator in Papua New Guinea, jointly announced the commencement of initial Sat2Phone services for subscribers utilizing Lynk’s “cell-towers-in-space.” This collaboration is anticipated to significantly enhance mobile coverage in Papua New Guinea, benefiting both the local population and visitors.

Telikom Limited, a leading telecommunication company in the South Pacific, is nationally owned and provides a range of telecommunication services in Papua New Guinea, including local, national, and international fixed-line and mobile services. Telikom engages in both retail and wholesale business, offering voice and data broadband services.

Amos Tepi, CEO of Telikom, expressed the positive impact of this initiative on the lives of Papuans, stating, “Today’s announcement will, over time, be instrumental in improving the lives of Papuans right across our nation. Lynk’s network deployment will enable continuous mobile coverage, surpassing the limitations of traditional terrestrial mobile towers. The initial service, starting in Hela Province, will extend in 2024 and beyond, allowing Telikom to better serve new and existing subscribers.”

James Alderdice, Lynk’s VP, Asia-Pacific, highlighted Lynk’s commitment to expanding services across Oceania, stating, “Our partnership with Telikom will enable mobile connectivity to be extended to the people of Papua New Guinea. Offering initial commercial service reflects Telikom’s innovative approach to bringing disparate communities together.”

The initial Sat2Phone service will begin with SMS and is expected to expand in the future to include voice and mobile broadband, ultimately delivering an urban-like mobile experience anywhere, no matter how remote. When achieved, ubiquitous connectivity will have the potential to offer life-saving emergency alerts and SMS warnings in areas vulnerable to natural disasters.