Arctic telecommunications experts are calling for an aggressive expansion of satellite-based internet services to bridge the persistent digital divide in northern communities. Despite new low-Earth-orbit (LEO) options, many areas remain underserved due to high costs, slow deployments, and capacity limitations during peak usage periods.
Industry leaders argue that hybrid systems—combining fibre backbones, microwave towers, and next-generation satellite bandwidth—are essential for building a resilient northern communications network. Such a system would support remote healthcare, emergency response, education, and business development across isolated regions.
Federal officials and industry stakeholders will convene later this year to explore strategic funding models that prioritize long-term digital sovereignty for the North.
