Airtel Partners with SpaceX to Launch Starlink Internet Services in India
In a major development for India’s broadband sector, Airtel has announced a partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to introduce Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services in India. This marks the first agreement of its kind in the country, pending regulatory approvals for SpaceX to sell Starlink services in India.
In a major development for India’s broadband sector, Airtel has announced a partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to introduce Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services in India. This marks the first agreement of its kind in the country, pending regulatory approvals for SpaceX to sell Starlink services in India.
Airtel stated that the partnership aims to enhance internet connectivity across India, particularly in remote and rural areas. The collaboration will explore various possibilities, including offering Starlink equipment in Airtel’s retail stores, providing Starlink services to business customers, and connecting schools, healthcare centers, and underserved communities.
“Working with SpaceX to offer Starlink to Airtel customers in India is a significant milestone and further demonstrates our commitment to next-generation satellite connectivity,” said Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Vice Chairman of Bharti Airtel Ltd.
Expanding India’s Digital Reach
Starlink, a satellite internet constellation owned by SpaceX, aims to provide global broadband coverage, making high-speed internet accessible even in the most remote locations. It enables seamless streaming, video calls, online gaming, and remote work.
“This collaboration enhances our ability to bring world-class high-speed broadband to even the most remote parts of India, ensuring that every individual, business, and community has reliable internet,” Vittal added.
SpaceX President and COO Gwynne Shotwell emphasized Airtel’s critical role in India’s telecom sector and highlighted the mutual benefits of the partnership.
“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,” Shotwell said.
Competition in India’s Broadband Market
The partnership poses a potential challenge to Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio, which currently leads India’s broadband sector with over 14 million wired subscribers and nearly 500 million mobile internet users. Airtel follows closely with around 300 million broadband subscribers. However, concerns have emerged among telecom operators about the risk of losing customers to Starlink, given the rapid advancements in satellite technology.
Sources By Agencies
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