NEW DELHI: Airtel gained a significant edge in the domestic telecom market by striking an agreement with Elon Musk’s Starlink to market the broadband and internet satellite services of the American company, while also using the latter’s network to supplement its coverage across the country.
Work on the partnership will, however, start only after Starlink – which is awaiting official approval – gets a go-ahead from the security establishment, even as govt works out pricing and other modalities to accord satellite spectrum to satcom companies on an administrative basis.
Satellite-based connectivity
“This is the first agreement to be signed in India, which is subject to SpaceX receiving its own authorisations to sell Starlink in India,” Airtel said in a statement on Tuesday. “It enables Airtel and SpaceX to further explore how Starlink can complement and expand Airtel’s offerings, and how Airtel’s expertise in the Indian market complements SpaceX’s direct offerings to consumers and businesses.”
Airtel closed the deal even as the company and its promoter Sunil Mittal has a stake in Eutelsat One Web, which has received a govt licence to operate satcom services in India and is awaiting spectrum.
Starlink’s growing orbit
The deal is also surprising as Airtel had recently joined hands with Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio to oppose administrative spectrum to satcom companies such as Starlink, demanding that airwaves should only be auctioned.
Airtel, SpaceX to work on network, retail synergies
The move will now see the two companies work out retail and network optimisation efforts.
“Airtel and SpaceX will explore to offer Starlink equipment in Airtel’s retail stores, Starlink services via Airtel to business customers, opportunities to connect communities, schools, and health centres, among many others, in even the most rural parts of India,” the companies said, adding that they will also explore “how Starlink could help expand and enhance the Airtel network, as well as SpaceX’s ability to utilise and benefit from Airtel’s ground network infrastructure and other capabilities in the country.”
Long pending India launch
Bharti Airtel MD and VC Gopal Vittal said working with SpaceX to offer Starlink to Airtel customers is a “significant milestone” and demonstrates the company’s commitment to offer next-generation satellite connectivity. “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. Starlink will complement and enhance Airtel’s suite of products to ensure reliable and affordable broadband for our Indian customers – wherever they live and work,” he said.
Satellite vs Wireless Cellular
SpaceX president and COO Gwynne Shotwell said the company is “excited to work with Airtel and unlock the transformative impact” Starlink can bring in India.
Airtel said it remains committed to offer comprehensive and reliable connectivity and digital solutions leveraging advanced technology with a focus on customer-centric services. “By adding Starlink, (in addition to its existing alliance with Eutelsat OneWeb) to its offerings, Airtel will further its ability to offer nationwide connectivity and connect previously underserved areas, particularly those with limited to no coverage today. With Starlink enterprise suite, Airtel will be able to offer enterprises, businesses, and communities comprehensive and seamless connectivity packages.”
Other satellite-based internet service providers