Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) announced on Wednesday, March 12, a strategic partnership with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer Starlink’s satellite-based broadband services in India. The agreement, subject to regulatory approvals, will enable Jio to distribute Starlink’s equipment through its retail and online platforms while also providing customer support for installation and activation.
Jio, India's largest telecom operator in terms of mobile data traffic, aims to integrate Starlink’s services into its broadband ecosystem, which currently includes JioAirFiber and JioFiber. Starlink operates a low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation that delivers internet connectivity in areas where conventional terrestrial networks are unavailable or unreliable.
This collaboration has the potential to significantly enhance internet access in remote and rural regions, where traditional fiber and mobile networks have limitations. However, the success of the partnership will depend on obtaining regulatory clearances and addressing pricing concerns, as satellite-based internet services are typically more expensive than conventional broadband options.
Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio, emphasized that Jio’s priority is to ensure affordable and high-speed broadband access across India. Meanwhile, Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, expressed enthusiasm about working with Jio and securing the necessary approvals to provide Starlink’s services in the country.
SpaceX has previously faced regulatory challenges in India, with the government instructing Starlink to refund pre-bookings as it had not obtained the required licenses. The partnership with Jio may help in navigating these obstacles, but official approvals remain pending.