Jio Strikes Deal with SpaceX to Bring Starlink to India, Hours After Airtel's Move

Jio partners with SpaceX to bring Starlink internet to India, following Airtel’s similar deal, aiming to expand high-speed connectivity nationwide.

Just after Airtel, Reliance Jio has also jumped into the satellite internet game. The company struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to bring Starlink services to India. The announcement was sudden, to say the least, but it has the potential to shake up India’s internet connectivity (something Jio knows very well).

With this collaboration, Jio aims to integrate Starlink’s satellite broadband with its existing fiber and wireless services. The goal? To extend high-speed internet access to even the most remote corners of the country. Mathew Oommen, President of Reliance Jio, called the move “a major step towards digital inclusion,” emphasizing that Jio wants “every Indian to have affordable, seamless connectivity.”

Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX, also praised the initiative, stating:

We applaud Jio’s commitment to advancing India’s connectivity. We look forward to providing enhanced digital connectivity across India.

A Race to Dominate India’s Satellite Internet Market

Jio’s sudden announcement comes on the heels of Bharti Airtel’s partnership with SpaceX, which was made public just hours earlier. Airtel is expected to use Starlink’s technology to enhance its broadband coverage, particularly in areas where traditional networks struggle to reach.

Both deals, however, are still pending regulatory approval. SpaceX has been waiting for clearance in India since 2022, with licensing delays tied to national security concerns. With two of India’s telecom giants now backing Starlink, the approval process could see new momentum.

What This Means for India’s Internet Access

India has long struggled with connectivity gaps (especially in rural and remote regions). Experts say that satellite internet could be the solution. The technology can offer high-speed broadband without relying on expensive infrastructure. Not to mention the wide range and accessibility it offers.

Musk’s Starlink currently operates over 6,900 satellites globally. That too with low-latency broadband in hard-to-reach locations. If the deals go through, Indian consumers could soon have another option for high-speed internet—one that doesn’t depend on ground-based towers or cables.

Jio and Airtel’s back-to-back announcements highlight a growing competition in India’s telecom space. It also reflects the increasing role of satellite technology in bridging the digital divide. However, with regulatory approvals still pending, the industry will be watching closely to see how this plays out.