Elon Musk’s Starlink Triggers Telecom War in India! After Airtel, Jio Partners with SpaceX to Expand Internet Services

In a surprising development, Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) has announced a partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink to offer satellite-based broadband internet in India. This comes just a day after Bharti Airtel's agreement with SpaceX, making India a key battleground for satellite internet expansion.

Jio’s collaboration with Elon Musk’s SpaceX aims to provide high-speed internet in remote areas, complementing its existing JioFiber and JioAirFiber services. However, the deal remains subject to regulatory approvals before Starlink can officially launch in the country.

Bharti Airtel Announced Its Starlink Deal on March 11, 2025

On March 11, 2025, Bharti Airtel became the first telecom company in India to announce a partnership with SpaceX’s Starlink. The deal was focused on expanding internet connectivity in underserved areas and enhancing Airtel’s broadband offerings.

Under this agreement, Airtel planned to distribute Starlink equipment through its retail stores and integrate satellite-based broadband into its existing telecom infrastructure. The announcement was seen as a major breakthrough for India’s digital connectivity, but within 24 hours, Jio responded with its own Starlink deal.

Jio’s Partnership with SpaceX Announced on March 12, 2025

A day later, on March 12, 2025, Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) officially announced its agreement with SpaceX to offer Starlink’s broadband services in India.

Jio Platforms Limited (JPL) announced an agreement with SpaceX to offer Starlink's broadband internet services to its customers in India. pic.twitter.com/1QUzlKli6Y

— ANI (@ANI) March 12, 2025

Jio, already the world’s largest mobile operator in terms of data traffic, aims to integrate Starlink’s satellite network to further expand its high-speed internet services. Jio will offer Starlink through its retail outlets and online platforms, making it more accessible for consumers and businesses alike.

How Jio Plans to Use Starlink for India’s Connectivity

Jio’s strategy includes:

• Making Starlink solutions available in Jio retail stores and online.
• Providing customer support for installation and activation of Starlink services.
• Extending Jio’s broadband reach to areas with little or no connectivity.
• Using Starlink to complement JioFiber and JioAirFiber, ensuring seamless internet across India.

Jio’s commitment to satellite broadband aligns with its vision of providing affordable, high-speed connectivity to even the most remote parts of India.

SpaceX's Take on Jio’s Partnership

Gwynne Shotwell, President and COO of SpaceX, welcomed the partnership and praised Jio’s efforts to advance India’s connectivity. She stated that SpaceX is eager to work with Jio and is awaiting regulatory approval to start offering Starlink in India.

Mathew Oommen, Group CEO of Reliance Jio, emphasized that providing affordable and high-speed broadband to every Indian remains Jio’s top priority. He called the partnership a "transformative step" in India's digital evolution.