Starlink Gen 2 Satellite Approval: Elon Musk’s Company Reportedly Reapplies to IN-SPACe for 30,000 LOE Satellites in India
Starlink has reapplied for approval to deploy around 30,000 Gen 2 low Earth orbit satellites in India, including direct-to-device connectivity. The updated proposal follows an earlier rejection over frequency-band compliance. If approved, Starlink would compete with Eutelsat OneWeb, Amazon Leo and Reliance Jio in India’s satellite communications market.
Elon Musk-backed Starlink has renewed its push to enter the Indian satellite communication market by resubmitting an application for its second-generation satellite constellation. The updated regulatory filing seeks authorization for approximately 30,000 low Earth orbit satellites, incorporating advanced technologies such as direct-to-device connectivity.
Starlink Reapplies for Gen 2 Satellite Authorization in India
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre previously approved Starlink's first-generation constellation comprising traditional broadband satellites, but rejected the broader Gen 2 proposal due to non-conformity issues regarding specific frequency bands. As per a report by The Economic Times, the newly submitted application requests authorization for low Earth orbit satellites operating at altitudes between 340 and 615 kilometres. SpaceX V3 Starlink Satellites Launched But Suffers Booster Failure.
Direct-to-Device Technology and Market Competition
India is currently reviewing potential regulatory frameworks for direct-to-device communications and the opening of additional spectrum bands for satellite operators. If approved, the integration of direct-to-device tech would position Starlink alongside major competitors such as Eutelsat OneWeb, Amazon Leo, and Reliance Jio's proposed satellite ventures. Starlink To Deliver High-Speed In-Flight Connectivity to Flydubai’s Boeing 737 Fleet, Installation for 100 Aircraft To Roll Out in 2026.
While commercial satellite services in India await final spectrum allocations and security clearances, traditional telecommunications operators have raised concerns regarding equal regulatory compliance for mobile connectivity offerings.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 20, 2026 10:39 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
