Key facts
- Jio Platforms is planning to build its own low-Earth-orbit satellite network.
- The network is intended to compete with Elon Musk's Starlink in India.
- Jio has submitted a proposal for 1,600 to 1,650 satellites.
- The company is exploring both organic and inorganic growth options.
- Mukesh Ambani controls Jio Platforms.
Jio Platforms, a company under the control of billionaire Mukesh Ambani, is reportedly planning to establish its own low-Earth-orbit (LEO) satellite constellation. This initiative is intended to directly compete with Elon Musk's Starlink service within India. The company has formally submitted a proposal that outlines the deployment of between 1,600 and 1,650 satellites. To achieve this ambitious goal, Jio is actively investigating a dual approach, considering both organic growth strategies, which would involve building the network in-house, and inorganic growth options, such as acquiring existing satellite companies or technologies. This move signals a significant investment and strategic push by Jio to capture a share of the burgeoning satellite internet market in India, aiming to offer an alternative to services like Starlink.