SpaceX to introduce Starlink’s satellite internet services in India

Indian telecom leader Bharti Airtel announced a partnership with SpaceX to introduce Starlink’s satellite internet services in India, pending regulatory approvals from IN-SPACe and the Department of Telecommunications. The collaboration, which follows SpaceX’s earlier failed attempt to launch preorders without proper licensing in 2022, aims to offer Starlink hardware through Airtel’s retail channels and provide satellite internet to enterprise clients. However, regulatory hurdles persist, including unresolved concerns over security, pricing, and lobbying from domestic rivals like Reliance Jio, which is also vying to dominate India’s satellite broadband market.

The move aligns with India’s recent policy shifts, such as the 2023 telecom bill enabling satellite spectrum allocation and 2024 government support for Starlink’s spectrum auction bid. Airtel’s deal also includes leveraging SpaceX’s expertise to enhance its network infrastructure, while SpaceX gains access to Airtel’s nationwide ground infrastructure. Notably, Airtel is diversifying its satellite strategy with a parallel partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, which secured approval for satellite services in late 2023.With India’s vast population and untapped internet market, the partnership underscores global and local competition to bridge connectivity gaps, though Starlink’s rollout remains contingent on navigating India’s complex regulatory landscape.

“Starlink will complement and enhance Airtel’s suite of products to ensure reliable and affordable broadband for our Indian customers – wherever they live and work,” said Gopal Vittal, managing director and vice chairman, Bharti Airtel, in a prepared statement.

“We are excited to work with Airtel and unlock the transformative impact Starlink can bring to the people of India. We are constantly amazed by the incredible and inspiring things that people, businesses and organizations do when they are connected via Starlink,” said Gwynne Shotwell, president and chief operating officer of SpaceX.