Airtel, a leading telecom provider, has partnered with SpaceX to integrate Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet into its service offerings in India, aiming to enhance connectivity across the country, The Economic Times reported.
Airtel and SpaceX are collaborating to expand Starlink’s presence in India, exploring the integration of Starlink equipment in Airtel’s retail stores and offering Starlink services to business customers. The partnership aims to bridge the digital divide by connecting remote communities, schools, and health centres, ensuring reliable internet access even in the most rural parts of the country.
This marks the first agreement of its kind in India, pending SpaceX’s regulatory approval to offer Starlink services in the country.
‘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, Bharti Airtel.
‘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,’ he added.
With the addition of Starlink – alongside its existing partnership with Eutelsat OneWeb – Airtel strengthens its capability to deliver nationwide connectivity, reaching previously underserved areas with little to no coverage.
‘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 Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX.
Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite internet division, is an integral part of the company’s mission to revolutionise global connectivity. Starlink provides high-speed, low-latency internet globally through the world’s first and largest low Earth orbit satellite constellation. Its broadband service supports streaming, online gaming, video calls, and more.
Airtel, officially known as Bharti Airtel, is one of the world’s leading telecommunications companies, headquartered in India. It operates in over 18 countries across Asia and Africa, providing mobile, broadband, digital TV, and enterprise solutions. Known for its extensive 4G and 5G networks, Airtel has played a key role in expanding digital connectivity in emerging markets.
