SpaceX’s Starlink has secured its first agreement in India, partnering with telecommunications leader Bharti Airtel to bring high-speed satellite internet to the world’s most populous country, the companies announced Tuesday [PDF].
The landmark deal will enable Starlink to tap into Airtel’s extensive retail network and ground infrastructure while expanding its global reach into previously underserved regions across India, pending regulatory authorizations.
“We are excited to work with Airtel and unlock the transformative impact Starlink can bring to the people of India,” said Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX. “The team at Airtel has played a pivotal role in India’s telecom story, so working with them to complement our direct offering makes great sense for our business.”
The collaboration will explore selling Starlink equipment through Airtel’s retail stores and offering services to business customers while connecting communities in rural areas with limited connectivity.