New Delhi | Bharti Airtel has partnered with SpaceX to introduce Starlink satellite internet services in India, marking a significant step toward expanding high-speed internet access, particularly in remote and underserved regions.
The agreement, announced in a press release on Tuesday, aims to combine Airtel’s telecom expertise with Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite network, potentially transforming digital connectivity across India. The deal is pending regulatory approvals before SpaceX can launch Starlink services in the country.
Starlink Services Through Airtel’s Network
Under this collaboration, Airtel will distribute Starlink’s satellite broadband equipment through its retail stores, making it accessible to businesses, educational institutions, healthcare centers, and rural communities. The partnership also explores integrating Starlink with Airtel’s existing telecom infrastructure to enhance nationwide coverage.
By adding Starlink to its offerings—alongside its existing partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb—Airtel aims to strengthen its satellite internet capabilities, ensuring reliable connectivity in regions where fiber or mobile networks remain limited.
Gopal Vittal, MD and Vice Chairman of Bharti Airtel, called the agreement a “significant milestone” in delivering high-speed internet to India’s most remote areas. SpaceX President and COO Gwynne Shotwell echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Starlink’s role in bridging the digital divide.
Enterprise Solutions and Nationwide Coverage
Beyond consumer services, the partnership extends to enterprise solutions, allowing businesses to leverage Starlink’s high-speed, low-latency internet for seamless operations. Airtel and SpaceX will also explore how Starlink’s infrastructure can enhance Airtel’s existing telecom services while utilizing Airtel’s ground network to expand Starlink’s reach.
With over 550 million users across India and Africa, Airtel is aggressively expanding its digital footprint. Meanwhile, Starlink, which operates a growing constellation of low-Earth orbit satellites, continues to revolutionize global internet connectivity.
Key Highlights of the Airtel-SpaceX Deal
- Airtel partners with SpaceX to bring Starlink’s satellite broadband to India.
- Regulatory approval required before full-scale deployment.
- Starlink equipment to be available in Airtel’s retail stores.
- Focus on rural and underserved areas where traditional telecom is costly or unavailable.
- Integration with Airtel’s existing network to enhance nationwide coverage.
- Enterprise solutions and business applications to be developed under the partnership.
This deal positions Airtel as a key player in India’s satellite internet market while advancing SpaceX’s vision of global broadband accessibility. If approved, the initiative could reshape digital connectivity for millions across urban and rural India.
