A Greenlandic telecom company, Tusass, has been in negotiations with Elon Musk’s satellite internet provider, Starlink, since December. The talks aim to secure improved internet and telephone connectivity for Greenland—a country where current communications rely heavily on two submarine cables and suffer from widespread instability. This development has attracted international attention due to its technological promise and its connection to broader geopolitical currents.
Greenland telecom and starlink negotiations
Tusass is exploring a partnership with Starlink to overcome the longstanding challenges of Greenland’s network infrastructure. Today, telephone and internet services in Greenland depend primarily on two submarine cables, resulting in unstable coverage in large areas. Tusass’ CEO , Toke Binzer, commented on the prospects, stating,
“I see some clear advantages with Starlink, but there are obviously also some challenges.”
This direct remark highlights both the potential benefits of leveraging an advanced satellite network and the complexities that accompany such a shift in infrastructure.
Infrastructure challenges in Greenland: overcoming submarine cable dependence
Greenland’s vast and sparsely populated terrain makes reliable connectivity a persistent challenge. With the country’s existing reliance on two undersea cables, many regions experience significant service disruptions.
The proposed collaboration with Starlink could introduce a robust, satellite-based solution that bypasses the geographical and technical limitations of cable dependency, offering a more consistent and far-reaching network across the island.
Geopolitical implications: Musk, Trump, and European political intrigue
The negotiations come at a time when Elon Musk’s political associations are under scrutiny. Musk’s well-documented closeness to U.S. President Donald Trump—and his recent involvement in European political debates—adds a contentious dimension to the talks.
Notably, Trump has previously expressed interest in annexing Greenland, a proposition that continues to stir geopolitical debates. These intertwined relationships underscore how a local infrastructure upgrade could have far-reaching international implications, merging technological progress with high-stakes political maneuvering.
Risks of satellite dependency
While Starlink’s satellite technology promises significant improvements in connectivity, it also carries inherent risks. International concerns have already emerged; for example, Reuters recently reported that
“the Americans threatened to shut down Starlink in Ukraine – even though it is Poland that purchased and paid for the connection.”
This instance illustrates the potential vulnerability of relying on a service that could be subject to political leverage. Greenland, therefore, faces a delicate balancing act between embracing innovative technology and mitigating the risks associated with geopolitical interference.
A new era for Greenland’s connectivity?
The ongoing negotiations between Tusass and Starlink signal a potential breakthrough for Greenland’s telecommunications infrastructure. By moving beyond the limitations of submarine cables, the nation could experience a transformative upgrade in connectivity. However, the deal is not without its complications. With Elon Musk’s political ties and Trump’s historical interest in Greenland adding layers of complexity, the outcome of these talks could reshape not only local communications but also influence international geopolitical dynamics.
As Greenland stands on the brink of a satellite internet revolution, industry observers and political analysts alike will be watching closely to see how technology and politics continue to intersect in this unique region.
