After Airtel, Jio inks pact with SpaceX for Starlink internet in India

Mukesh Ambani-led Jio Platforms Limited said on Wednesday it signed a deal with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s internet services to India, a day after rival Bharti Airtel inked a similar pact.

“This agreement, which is subject to SpaceX receiving its own authorisations to sell Starlink in India, enables Jio and SpaceX to explore how Starlink can extend Jio’s offerings and how Jio can complement SpaceX’s direct offerings to consumers and businesses,” the company said in a statement.

Jio Platforms Limited plans to offer Starlink solutions through its retail stores and online platforms.

Under this partnership, Jio’s extensive presence as the world’s largest mobile operator by data traffic and Starlink’s leadership in low Earth orbit satellite technology will be utilized to provide reliable broadband connectivity across India, including its most remote and rural areas.

“Jio will not only offer Starlink equipment in its retail outlets but will establish a mechanism to support customer service installation and activation. The agreement with SpaceX is part of Jio’s commitment to ensuring that reliable internet is fully accessible to all enterprises, small and medium businesses, and communities across India,” the company said.

Additionally, Jio and SpaceX are exploring further collaboration opportunities to integrate their infrastructure and strengthen India’s digital ecosystem.

Mathew Oommen, group CEO at Reliance Jio, said, “…Our collaboration with SpaceX to bring Starlink to India strengthens our commitment and marks a transformative step toward seamless broadband connectivity for all. By integrating Starlink into Jio’s broadband ecosystem, we are expanding our reach and enhancing the reliability and accessibility of high-speed broadband in this AI-driven era, empowering communities and businesses across the country.”

Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, said, “We applaud Jio’s commitment to advancing India’s connectivity. We are looking forward to working with Jio and receiving authorisation from the Government of India to provide more people, organisations and businesses with access to Starlink’s high-speed internet services.”

Airtel partners with SpaceX

Bharti Airtel has entered into an agreement with SpaceX to introduce Starlink’s satellite internet services in India, according to a regulatory filing on Tuesday. However, the partnership remains subject to regulatory approvals for SpaceX to offer Starlink services in the country.

Through this collaboration, Airtel and SpaceX will explore opportunities to enhance internet connectivity across India. Under the agreement, Airtel may distribute Starlink equipment through its retail outlets and provide high-speed satellite internet services to businesses. Additionally, both companies will work towards expanding reliable internet access to rural schools, healthcare centres, and remote areas, contributing to efforts to bridge the digital divide.

Beyond improving connectivity, the partnership will assess how Starlink’s satellite technology can complement Airtel’s existing network while enabling SpaceX to use Airtel’s ground infrastructure in India. This initiative aligns with Airtel’s broader strategy to deliver advanced connectivity solutions nationwide, the company said.

Airtel will further expand its reach by incorporating Starlink into its portfolio. This move aims to enhance internet access in underserved regions, benefitting businesses and communities by unlocking new opportunities for growth and development.