Amazon eyes Indian satcom market

Amazon is reportedly seeking approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) to introduce broadband-from-space services in India. If approved, this move would position Amazon alongside key players such as Elon Musk’s Starlink, Bharti Airtel-backed OneWeb, and Reliance Industries’ Jio Satellite in the Indian satellite communications (satcom) sector.

India’s 2023 Space Policy encourages private sector investment and allows foreign entities to offer satellite services with approval from IN-SPACe. While OneWeb and Jio Satellite have already secured their licenses, Starlink is still waiting for approval. Amazon is expected to seek a similar license from the Department of Telecommunications.

Last month, Amazon Web Services (AWS) India Private Limited announced a strategic partnership with ISRO and IN-SPACe. The partnership aims to provide space startups, research institutions, and students with advanced cloud technologies, supporting the growth and development of innovative solutions within the space sector.

Amazon’s ambition in satcom extends beyond India. The company’s website hints at a global broadband service, offering high speeds ranging from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps. Insiders suggest that Amazon intends to synchronize its Indian launch with its global rollout.

Under its Project Kuiper, Amazon plans to deploy over 3,000 satellites and aims to commence services by the end of 2024. With India’s space economy predicted to reach $13 billion by 2025, the entry of global satcom heavyweights into the Indian market is closely monitored. TS2