Jio Signs Agreement with SpaceX to Bring Starlink Internet to India
Reliance Jio has announced a partnership with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s satellite internet services to India. This move follows a similar agreement between SpaceX and Airtel, which was announced a day earlier. The launch of Starlink’s services in India is subject to government approval, as the company’s license application is still under review.
Under this agreement, Jio will distribute Starlink’s satellite internet solutions through its retail stores and online platforms. The company will not only offer Starlink equipment but also provide customer support for installation and activation. Jio stated that Starlink would complement its existing services, such as JioFiber and JioAirFiber, by extending high-speed internet to remote and underserved areas at an affordable cost.
The entry of Starlink into India has sparked debates among telecom operators over spectrum allocation and licensing rules. Telecom companies have raised concerns that satellite-based internet providers like Starlink might take away high-value urban customers. They argue that spectrum for satellite communication should be allocated through auctions, similar to telecom operators, instead of an administrative route.
Jio already has a joint venture with Luxembourg-based SES for satellite internet services. However, SES operates a fleet of around 70 satellites, while Starlink has a significantly larger network of over 7,000 satellites. By partnering with SpaceX, Jio aims to strengthen its position in India’s satellite broadband market and compete effectively.
Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio, stated that the collaboration with SpaceX marks a major step towards seamless broadband connectivity across India. He emphasized that integrating Starlink into Jio’s broadband ecosystem will enhance accessibility and reliability for both communities and businesses. Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, expressed excitement about working with Jio and receiving government approval to offer Starlink’s high-speed internet in India.
Regulatory approvals remain a key hurdle, with Starlink’s application undergoing security evaluations. The Indian government is also finalizing policies for satellite spectrum allocation and pricing, which will impact the rollout of satellite broadband services.
Source: Financial Express
