Bharti Airtel has entered into an agreement with SpaceX to explore opportunities for offering Starlink’s satellite-based internet services in India. Announced on March 11, this partnership aims to integrate Starlink’s connectivity solutions into Airtel’s retail and enterprise offerings. The collaboration could enable better internet access for underserved rural communities, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities across the country.
However, the agreement is contingent on SpaceX securing the necessary regulatory approvals to operate Starlink in India. The Union Home Ministry is currently reviewing SpaceX’s application for security clearance, while the Indian National Space Promotion & Authorisation Centre (In-SPACE) is processing its request for landing rights, as reported by Reuters.
Airtel sees Starlink as a strategic addition to its existing network infrastructure. The company has already partnered with Eutelsat OneWeb and believes that integrating Starlink will further strengthen its ability to provide nationwide connectivity. According to Airtel’s statement, the enterprise suite offered by Starlink will help deliver seamless and high-speed broadband services to businesses, organizations, and remote communities.
This collaboration positions Starlink as a direct competitor to Reliance Jio in the race to capture India’s growing satellite internet market. Jio has already partnered with Luxembourg-based SES for satellite connectivity, while Amazon’s Project Kuiper is also eyeing entry into the Indian broadband space.
Notably, Airtel and SpaceX were previously on opposing sides regarding the allocation of satellite spectrum. Indian telecom operators, including Airtel and Jio, advocated for an auction-based model, whereas the government supported an administrative allocation aligned with international practices, a stance favoring Starlink.
Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Vice Chairman of Bharti Airtel, highlighted the significance of this partnership in bridging connectivity gaps across India. He stated, “By working with SpaceX, we are reinforcing our commitment to next-generation satellite connectivity. This will ensure high-speed broadband access for individuals, businesses, and communities, regardless of their location.”
Echoing similar sentiments, Gwynne Shotwell, President and CEO of SpaceX, emphasized the transformative potential of Starlink in India, expressing excitement about the partnership with Airtel to enhance digital inclusion.
With multiple global and domestic players vying for a stake in India’s satellite broadband sector, the competition is expected to intensify in the coming years, shaping the future of internet accessibility across the nation.
