Reliance eyes LEO satellite venture to deliver space-based broadband, take on Starlink: Report

Reliance Industries is exploring plans to launch its own low earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellation aimed at delivering high-speed broadband internet directly from space to consumers and enterprises, according to a report by The Economic Times. 

The move would place the company in direct competition with Starlink, which already operates across more than 100 countries and is a dominant player in the fast-growing satellite broadband segment. 

Reliance is reportedly preparing to invest billions of dollars in the venture, with groundwork already underway. Multiple internal teams have been set up to focus on satellite development, launch capabilities, payloads, and user terminals, the report said. 

Apart from commercial potential, the initiative is also being viewed through a strategic lens. A domestically owned LEO satellite network could strengthen India’s communications resilience during conflicts by reducing dependence on foreign infrastructure. 

The project is being spearheaded by Mukesh Ambani, Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries. Key executives involved include Mathew Oommen, CEO of Jio Platforms Limited, along with RIL president P K Bhatnagar and Jio Platforms senior vice president Ayush Bhatnagar. 

To operationalise the venture, Reliance will need to secure orbital slots and spectrum from the International Telecommunication Union. The company has already approached the Department of Telecommunications for assistance in facilitating the process, as per the report. 

Acquisition option on the table 

Reliance is also evaluating the possibility of acquiring an existing satellite company with ready orbital slots and infrastructure to accelerate time-to-market. However, the plans remain at an early stage, with official announcements expected after further clarity on execution details. 

The company will enter a competitive landscape that includes players such as Eutelsat OneWeb and Amazon’s Project Kuiper, all of which are eyeing India’s satellite broadband market. 

Reliance already has a presence in the space broadband segment through its joint venture with SES S.A., called Jio Space Technology Limited. However, that venture primarily targets enterprise customers and does not rely on LEO satellites. 

The proposed LEO initiative is expected to operate under Jio Platforms, aligning with Reliance Jio’s broader digital ecosystem. The development comes ahead of the anticipated initial public offering (IPO) of Reliance Jio, and could enhance its appeal to both retail and institutional investors.