MUMBAI: In a strategic move that follows arch-rival Airtel's recent partnership, Jio Platforms has entered into an agreement with SpaceX to offer Starlink's satellite internet services to Indian customers.
The agreement, announced Wednesday, will see India's data traffic heavyweight join forces with the world's leading low Earth orbit satellite operator in a partnership that promises to reach even the most remote corners of the subcontinent.
"This deal isn't just about connecting the unconnected—it's about transforming digital access," says an industry analyst. "With Airtel and now Jio partnering with Starlink, SpaceX has strategically orchestrated its entry into one of the world's most competitive telecom, internet and data delivery markets."
Jio's retail network will soon showcase Starlink equipment alongside installation and activation support, creating a significant expansion of connectivity options that complement existing JioAirFiber and JioFiber services.
Mathew Oommen, group chief executive at Reliance Jio, emphasized the company's mission to provide "affordable and high-speed broadband" to all Indians, while Gwynne Shotwell, president and chief operating officer of SpaceX, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership—pending government authorisation. “We are looking forward to to provide more people, organisations and businesses with access to Starlink’s high-speed internet services.”
The satellite internet competition has intensified in India, with both telecom giants now aligning with Elon Musk's constellation. Industry watchers suggest this competition could revolutionise connectivity across rural India, where terrestrial infrastructure has traditionally been inadequate.
Beyond immediate internet provisions, both companies are exploring additional collaborative ventures to boost India's digital ecosystem in what Oommen described as "this AI-driven era."
For millions of Indians lacking reliable internet access, these satellite partnerships promise to be a significant breakthrough—one that now has not just one, but two major telecom providers driving forward.
