Bharti Airtel has signed an agreement with Elon Musk’s SpaceX that might help expedite the entry of Starlink’s satellite-based internet services in India. This is the first such agreement in the country, paving the way for Starlink internet to launch in India, subject to necessary government approval.
In a release shared with the media, Airtel said the partnership will open possibilities to collaborate in various areas, including offering Starlink equipment through the telco’s retail network and providing Starlink services to enterprise customers. Furthermore, the companies will explore opportunities to connect remote communities, educational institutions, and healthcare centres in underserved rural areas.
“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,” Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Vice Chairman, Airtel said, adding that “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.”
As part of the agreement, the duo will work together to complement the network infrastructure of each other. They will work towards ensuring how Starlink can augment and enhance Airtel’s existing network, while conversely, exploring how SpaceX can leverage Airtel’s ground network infrastructure and capabilities within India.
“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 organisations do when they are connected via Starlink,” Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX, said.
Complementing its existing partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, the addition of Starlink will significantly bolster Airtel’s ability to provide pan India connectivity, particularly in regions with limited or no coverage.
