The Argentine government has announced a significant contract for the country, involving about 16,000 establishments throughout the national territory and representing an annual sum of 60 billion pesos. This initiative has arisen thanks to the Secretariat of Innovation, Science and Technology, which has expressed interest in collaborating with Elon Musk, highlighting the human resources and locations available in Argentina for large-scale space projects.
The main telecommunications companies in the country have been taken by surprise by this recent announcement from the administration of Javier Milei. While questions arise about who will benefit from this decision, the government assures that it will bring greater benefits to end consumers by fostering increased competition among companies in the sector.
In this context, Elon Musk's Starlink, which offers satellite internet services, could expedite its market entry into Argentina. The company has already launched significant discounts on its equipment and has begun operations in the country starting March 2024, after receiving approval from the National Communications Entity.
According to Adorni, a government representative, the willingness to make the necessary resources available for the project has been indicated, such as the 100 MHz of spectrum reserved for Arsat for mobile communications, currently unused, along with another 50 MHz in possession of Enacom. This move is part of the vision to build a future based on technological innovation for the benefit of society, according to the Secretariat headed by Darío Genua.
Although attempts were made in the past to involve Carlos Slim in these matters, the current attention is focused on Elon Musk and his interest in Arsat's assets. There is speculation about a possible bidding war between Slim and Musk for these assets, which could generate significant changes in the local telecommunications market.
In summary, this announcement marks a turning point for Arsat, with the potential attraction of significant investments led by Elon Musk. The Argentine government also plans to re-tender the connectivity service for public schools as part of this technological modernization initiative.
