Explained: How rivals Airtel, Jio partnered for Elon Musk’s Starlink; benefits and launch details

Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio, India’s largest telecom providers, have entered into agreements with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to introduce Starlink’s satellite broadband services in India. The move is surprising, considering both companies had earlier opposed Starlink’s entry, citing concerns over an uneven playing field.

Previously, Airtel and Jio had called for satellite operators like Starlink to pay spectrum fees similar to telecom firms. Their change in stance now signals a shift in strategy, where collaboration takes precedence over direct competition.

The Partnerships:

Jio: Will sell Starlink hardware via stores, manage installations, and integrate it with JioFiber/AirFiber.

Airtel: Plans to deploy Starlink in rural schools, healthcare centers, and leverage SpaceX tech for enterprise solutions.

What’s in It for Airtel and Jio?

For Airtel, the partnership means leveraging Starlink’s satellite technology to provide internet access in remote locations. The company plans to integrate Starlink’s services into its network, ensuring wider connectivity across rural schools, healthcare centres, and isolated communities. Airtel may also offer Starlink equipment through its retail outlets.

Jio, on the other hand, sees Starlink as a means to enhance its broadband services, especially in areas where fibre connectivity is challenging. The company plans to integrate Starlink into its JioFiber and JioAirFiber ecosystem, offering high-speed internet in underserved regions. Jio will also manage installation and customer support for Starlink in India.

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Regulatory Hurdles and Launch Timeline

Despite these deals, Starlink’s rollout in India is subject to government approval. SpaceX has been trying to enter the Indian market since 2022 but faced regulatory roadblocks. It previously had to refund pre-orders after being flagged for operating without necessary permissions.

The Indian government has since indicated a willingness to grant Starlink a satellite internet license, provided it meets stringent security and regulatory requirements. Until then, Airtel and Jio’s agreements remain on hold.

What Is Starlink and How Will It Benefit Indian Users?

Starlink uses a network of low-Earth orbit satellites to beam high-speed internet globally via user terminals (satellite dishes). It bypasses ground infrastructure, making it ideal for remote areas with limited connectivity, where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited or absent.

With Starlink, remote villages can gain access to online education, telemedicine, and e-commerce, bridging India’s digital divide. Moreover, the service will also play a crucial role in disaster relief by providing emergency communication during natural calamities. Additionally, it can offer internet access in mountainous and forested regions where laying fibre cables is impractical.

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A Broader Strategic Shift

Airtel and Jio’s partnership with SpaceX comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US, where he met Elon Musk to discuss space, technology, and innovation. The move is also seen as a step in strengthening US-India ties in the tech sector while countering China’s advancements in satellite communications.

Experts believe these agreements will increase competition in India’s telecom sector, making satellite internet more affordable and accessible. The collaboration positions India as a key player in the global satellite broadband market, opening doors for further investments in the country’s digital infrastructure.