New Delhi: Starlink is set for another challenge as it tries to offer satellite-based internet connectivity in India, being owned by Elon Musk. The Indian government is reportedly considering restrictions on Starlink’s use of its satellite network to send internet data, citing concerns of national security and data sovereignty.
Indian sources say officials doubt whether the country will let the technology known as Laser Inter-Satellite Link (LISL) developed by Starlink be used freely. This technology makes it possible for satellites to directly communicate with other satellites when in space, and helps to send Internet data from satellite to satellite with minimal dependency on ground infrastructure. Though the system will enhance the spread of coverage and efficiency, officials are worried that the system may be allowing Indian user data to travel through foreign networks not controlled by the Indian government.
The authorities are reportedly worried that the kind of data routing would make it hard to keep track of internet usage and impose India’s data protection and security laws. Consequently, Starlink potentially needs to have gateways in India to ensure that Indian users’ data flows through them to the global internet.
There are also worries around how Starlink’s network is being managed. Because the satellite system is managed from the ground by SpaceX in the U.S., authorities believe SpaceX could make the satellite’s coverage area and network operations unpredictable and hand over control to any prison or third party upon request. Because this satellite system is centrally controlled by SpaceX in the United States, SpaceX could be given the means to change the coverage areas and network operations in the satellites, and give control to any prison or any third party upon request. Indian authorities are closely studying the capabilities to decide final clearance for commercial operations, the reports added.
This is far from the first obstacle for Starlink in India. It had been reported earlier this month that the government had slowed the delivery process as a result of security concerns over the use of Starlink terminals in “danger zones,” such as the Middle East. The developments have led Indian authorities to adopt a more conservative stance towards the company gaining access to India.
Starlink has already been allotted crucial satellite communications licenses in India, but final security clearances have yet to be submitted for commercial operations. Other satellite internet competitor companies, including Jio-SES joint venture and Eutelsat OneWeb, are also awaiting some approval and do not use the same type of laser links used by Starlink. This will be highly meaningful for Musk’s company in particular.
Though it has faced challenges, Starlink has insisted that it continues to have active discussions with the Indian government and is working towards fulfilling all regulatory requirements. The company states it has been actively collaborating with the authorities and looks forward to getting satellite Internet services to India in the near future. The outcome of these discussions could play a key role in shaping the future of satellite internet services in India, a market expected to see rapid growth in the coming years.
