Brief
Low Earth orbit satellites in the Pacific: Opportunities, risks, and governance for resilient connectivity explores the role of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems in the Pacific and how they can be integrated with subsea cable infrastructure to support more resilient and inclusive connectivity.
Pacific island countries are at a pivotal stage in their digital development – nearly all are now linked to international subsea telecommunication cables, establishing a critical foundation for economic growth and development. Cables will remain the backbone of high-capacity international connectivity across the region, but the emergence of LEO satellite constellations is creating new opportunities to extend coverage, strengthen redundancy and improve resilience, particularly for remote communities and outer islands that remain beyond the reach of cable infrastructure. With these opportunities also come challenges, particularly in relation to the governance and regulation of new and emerging telecommunications technologies and services.
Commissioned by the Cable Connectivity & Resilience Centre, the research explores this evolving landscape, recognising that satellite and subsea cable infrastructure will increasingly need to work together. Until now, there has been limited analysis focused on the Pacific context. The research responds to that gap, providing an evidence base to support informed decision-making as countries plan the next generation of connectivity infrastructure.
Drawing on financial modelling, technical analysis and consultations with the region’s governments, industry and development partners, the study provides practical insights to support Pacific governments to expand access, strengthen resilience and plan for increasingly hybrid connectivity systems.
This research was launched at the Pacific Islands Telecommunications Association (PITA) AGM, Business Forum and Expo, in April 2026.
Key findings for Pacific island countries
- Subsea cables will remain the backbone of connectivity, providing the lowest-cost, long-term solution for high-capacity demand and forming the foundation of national and regional infrastructure.
- LEO satellites strengthen resilience and reach by enabling rapid deployment, providing redundancy, and extending connectivity to remote and underserved areas.
- Effective regulation enables success, with clear, proportionate and enforceable frameworks essential to integrate LEO while protecting national interests.
- Hybrid models deliver effective outcomes, with cable upgrades supporting long-term capacity and LEO providing flexible redundancy that is economically complementary.
- Regional collaboration is critical for Pacific island countries to strengthen negotiating power, reduce duplication and support coordinated and effective connectivity outcomes.
- Connectivity performance depends on the full network, with outcomes shaped by power reliability, land backhaul and access networks, and environmental factors, not just international links.
- Maintaining sovereign control is important, as foreign-owned LEO systems introduce risks around data routing, control and lawful intercept that require clear safeguards.