SpaceX has setup its Starlink Gateway at FINTEL’s International Gateway, Vatuwaqa, Suva, Fiji.
This is to provide internet service to connect remote villages in Tonga that have been cut-off since the devastation caused by the volcanic eruptions and tsunami in January.
SpaceX presence in Fiji was first highlighted by the Fijian Government.
https://www.fbcnews.com.fj/business/spacex-engineers-in-fiji-for-six-months/
The Tongan Government launched the service yesterday, Wednesday 23rd February.
https://www.facebook.com/broadcasting.broadcomfm/videos/press-conference-23022022/376078210586100/
Tonga's Prime Minister, Siaosi Sovaleni, said Musk set up a Starlink gateway station in Fiji (FINTEL) and was donating 50 VSAT terminals and free capacity "during the emergency period".
Sovaleni said 85% of Tongans had been impacted by the volcano and tsunami, with damage mounting to 20% of GDP. Four people were killed.
The service will remain in place until a submarine cable connecting the outlying islands with Tonga's main island Tongatapu is repaired.
The international cable connecting Tonga to FINTEL/Fiji was back on line on Wednesday. The domestic cable may take more time to replace.