Canada's Efforts to Diversify from Starlink: A Closer Look

Introduction

The Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney, has expressed a desire to reduce Canada's reliance on Starlink, the popular satellite internet service provided by SpaceX under the leadership of Elon Musk. In a recent interview with the New York Times, Carney highlighted the importance of reducing Canada's dependence on the U.S. in various aspects, including trade and resources, as well as strategic and technological dependence. Carney's comments have sparked a conversation about Canada's efforts to diversify its internet infrastructure away from Starlink.

Prime Minister's Statement on Starlink

In the interview, Carney stated, ‘Starlink, we will diversify away from, no question,’ emphasizing Canada's intention to reduce its reliance on Starlink. The Prime Minister also mentioned past disruptions and Musk's reluctance to extend Starlink coverage into Russian-occupied Crimea, during a counterattack on a Crimean port. This statement underscores Canada's commitment to reducing its technological dependence on the U.S. and exploring alternative solutions.

Alternatives to Starlink

While Starlink is a popular option in Canada, particularly for rural residents, there are other alternatives in the works. Canadian companies like Terrestar and Telesat are working on their own satellite operations, while Bell and Telus are exploring AST SpaceMobile for their upcoming satellite coverage. Additionally, Amazon's Leo project, while American, could potentially serve as an alternative to Starlink. These initiatives reflect Canada's efforts to diversify its internet infrastructure and reduce its reliance on Starlink.

Previous Efforts to Diversify

Notably, Carney isn't the first Canadian politician to take aim at Starlink. In 2025, Ontario Premier Doug Ford cancelled a $100 million contract the province had with Starlink during the initial round of U.S. tariffs. This cancellation highlights the growing interest in exploring alternative solutions and reducing dependence on Starlink.

Regulatory Changes to Support Internet Infrastructure

Canada is also taking steps to support the development of internet infrastructure. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has confirmed that Rogers and Telus have completed broadband projects in Ontario and British Columbia. Additionally, new regulations have been introduced to make it easier for companies to build cell towers, further supporting the development of Canada's internet infrastructure.

Conclusion

As Canada continues to explore alternatives to Starlink, the efforts to diversify its internet infrastructure are a positive step towards reducing its technological dependence on the U.S. and ensuring more resilient and secure internet connectivity for its citizens.