SpaceX’s Starlink Sets New Connectivity Standards in India with Airtel & Jio

New Delhi, March 12, 2025 – India’s top telecom giants, Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio, have signed agreements with SpaceX. These agreements will introduce high-speed satellite internet services in India of Starlink. These deals were announced within a day of each other. They mark a significant step toward improving broadband connectivity. This is especially true in remote and under served areas.

Airtel’s Collaboration with SpaceX

Airtel’s agreement with SpaceX, subject to regulatory approvals, aims to integrate Starlink into its service offerings. The partnership will allow Airtel to provide Starlink equipment through its retail stores. It will also extend satellite internet services to businesses, educational institutions, healthcare centers, and rural communities.

Airtel is already in partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb. It sees Starlink as a key component in its mission to expand digital connectivity across India. “This collaboration will enhance our ability to provide high-speed broadband. We have a goal to reach even the most remote parts of India. Gopal Vittal is the Managing Director and Vice Chairman of Bharti Airtel, and he emphasized this aim.”

SpaceX’s President and COO, Gwynne Shotwell, praised Airtel’s role in India’s telecom sector. She said, “We are excited to work with Airtel. We aim to unlock the transformative impact of Starlink in India.”

Jio’s Agreement with SpaceX

A day after Airtel’s announcement, Reliance Jio revealed its own agreement with SpaceX to bring Starlink services to India. Similar to Airtel, Jio’s deal is contingent on SpaceX obtaining government authorization.

Jio and SpaceX had previously been on opposite sides of the debate over satellite spectrum allocation. Jio advocated for an auction, while SpaceX favored administrative allocation. The Indian government has chosen the administrative route. As a result, the two companies have now aligned to explore Starlink’s integration into Jio’s ecosystem.

Under the agreement, Jio will offer Starlink services through its retail outlets and online platforms. The company will also establish support mechanisms for customer service, installation, and activation. “Starlink complements JioAirFiber and JioFiber. It extends high-speed internet to the most challenging locations. This is done in a quick and affordable manner,” Jio stated.

Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio, highlighted the importance of Starlink in improving India’s digital ecosystem. He explained, “By integrating Starlink into Jio’s broadband ecosystem, we are expanding our reach. We are enhancing high-speed internet access across the country.”

Gwynne Shotwell of SpaceX echoed similar sentiments. She added, “We are looking forward to working with Jio. We are also looking forward to receiving authorization from the Indian government to expand Starlink’s reach.”

A New Era of Connectivity

The back-to-back announcements from Airtel and Jio highlight India’s growing focus on satellite-based internet solutions. Both telecom giants are now partnering with SpaceX. Starlink is poised to play a crucial role in bridging India’s digital divide. It will ensure reliable and high-speed broadband access for millions across the country.