Bharti Airtel Teams Up With Elon Musk’s SpaceX To Bring Starlink’s High-Speed Internet To India

Bharti Airtel has announced a partnership with Elon Musk-owned aerospace company, SpaceX to introduce Starlink satellite internet services in India.

In a joint statement released on March 11, the telecom major announced its formal agreement with SpaceX to explore offering Starlink equipment in Airtel’s retail stores.

All you need to know about the partnership

This partnership aims to improve connectivity in India’s most remote regions, including communities, schools, and healthcare centres.

As part of the deal, Starlink services could also be offered to Airtel business customers.

In exchange, Airtel would be helping Starlink expand and enhance its ground network in India. However, Airtel stated that the agreement is subject to SpaceX receiving authorisation to sell Starlink in India.

By integrating Starlink into its offering alongside its existing partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb, India’s leading telecom company aspires to strengthen its ability to provide nationwide coverage, particularly in underserved areas.

The new collaboration explores ways Starlink’s satellite-based internet can enhance Airtel’s offerings.

Furthermore, Airtel’s market prominence is expected to complement SpaceX’s direct-to-consumer and business services in India.

“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,” said Gopal Vittal, managing director and vice chairman, of Bharti Airtel Ltd.

Vittal added that the collaboration will enhance its ability to bring high-speed broadband to even the most remote parts of the country… “Starlink will complement and enhance Airtel’s suite of products to ensure reliable and affordable broadband for our Indian customers.”

“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 organizations do when they are connected via Starlink,” said Gwynne Shotwell, president and CEO of SpaceX.

According to consultancy firm Deloitte, India’s satellite broadband service market would steadily grow 36 per cent year-over-year (YoY) over the next five years and reach $1.9 billion by 2030.

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