Jio and SpaceX Partner to Introduce Starlink Internet in India alongside Airtel
Following Airtel, Jio Platforms has entered into a collaborative agreement with SpaceX to explore the deployment of Starlink’s broadband internet services for Indian customers. However, this partnership is contingent on SpaceX obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals to operate Starlink in India.
The collaboration seeks to assess how Starlink’s satellite-based services can enhance Jio’s existing offerings, while also identifying ways in which Jio can support SpaceX’s direct-to-consumer and business operations. As part of the plan, Jio aims to distribute Starlink equipment through its retail stores and online platforms.
The primary goal of this partnership is to combine Jio’s extensive data network with SpaceX’s low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation to expand broadband access across India, particularly in remote and rural regions.
Jio also plans to provide Starlink hardware through its well-established retail distribution network and will develop a dedicated customer support system for installation and activation services.
This agreement aligns with Jio’s broader mission to enhance internet accessibility for enterprises, small and medium-sized businesses, and communities across India. Starlink is expected to serve as a complementary solution to JioAirFiber and JioFiber, delivering high-speed internet to difficult-to-reach locations in a cost-effective and efficient manner.
Beyond the initial distribution partnership, Jio and SpaceX are also exploring additional opportunities for collaboration, leveraging their respective infrastructure to advance India’s digital ecosystem further.
Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio, on the partnership:
"Providing affordable, high-speed broadband access to every Indian, regardless of location, remains Jio’s top priority. Our collaboration with SpaceX to introduce Starlink in India reinforces this commitment and represents a significant step toward seamless nationwide connectivity. By integrating Starlink into Jio’s broadband ecosystem, we are expanding coverage and improving the reliability and accessibility of high-speed internet in this AI-driven era, empowering communities and businesses across the country."
Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX, added:
"We commend Jio’s dedication to enhancing India’s connectivity. We look forward to partnering with Jio and securing the necessary approvals from the Government of India to extend Starlink’s high-speed internet services to more individuals, organizations, and businesses."
