Airtel and SpaceX have announced a partnership aimed at bringing Starlink’s satellite internet services to customers in India. The agreement, disclosed today, marks the first such collaboration for Starlink within the Indian market.
The partnership is contingent upon SpaceX securing the necessary regulatory approvals to operate Starlink in India. The companies intend to explore various aspects of service delivery, including the potential for Airtel to distribute Starlink equipment through its retail outlets and offer Starlink services to business clients.
Further areas of collaboration will focus on expanding connectivity to underserved regions of India, with a particular emphasis on rural communities, schools, and healthcare facilities.
The agreement also outlines plans to investigate how Starlink’s technology can enhance Airtel’s existing network infrastructure, and how SpaceX can leverage Airtel’s ground network and associated resources.
Airtel’s strategy involves integrating Starlink alongside its existing partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, aiming to provide comprehensive nationwide connectivity, particularly in areas currently lacking reliable internet access. The company intends to offer Starlink’s enterprise solutions to businesses and communities, providing seamless connectivity packages.
Regarding the partnership, Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Vice Chairman, Bharti Airtel Ltd, said:
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. 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. Starlink will complement and enhance Airtel’s suite of products to ensure reliable and affordable broadband for our Indian customers wherever they live and work.
Technology is always evolving and we’re committed to staying at the forefront of innovation so that we can continue to bring the best connectivity experience for our customers. This includes collaborating with global leaders like SpaceX to extend our reach and add new coverage to customers throughout all of India.
Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX, said:
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. The team at Airtel has played a pivotal role in India’s telecom story, so working with them to complement our direct offering makes great sense for our business.