Reliance Jio is preparing to enter the global satellite broadband race with plans for a massive constellation of around 1,600 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. The satellites are expected to operate at an altitude of approximately 650 kilometres, positioning Jio to compete with major satellite internet providers including SpaceX’s Starlink and Amazon Leo.
The ambitious project could mark a major step for India’s satellite communications industry and strengthen the country’s efforts to develop domestic space-based connectivity.
Jio’s 1,600-Satellite LEO Network
According to reports, Jio plans to deploy about 1,600 satellites as part of its proposed LEO constellation. The company is targeting a test flight around September 2027, with large-scale deployment expected to begin in early 2028. Jio reportedly plans to deploy around 400-450 satellites by 2030, with the complete network potentially taking until 2035.
The proposed network is designed to provide high-speed broadband, cellular backhaul and direct-to-device satellite connectivity.
Why Jio Chose a 650-Km Orbit
Jio’s planned satellites will operate at approximately 650 km above Earth, a slightly higher altitude than the orbital bands used by Starlink and Amazon Leo. Reports indicate that Jio selected the 640-700 km range because it is relatively less crowded by major existing or planned LEO constellations, potentially reducing orbital coordination and interference challenges.
The lower distance compared with traditional high-orbit satellites can also help LEO systems deliver relatively low-latency connectivity.
Competing With Starlink and Amazon Leo
The satellite internet market is currently led by Starlink, which has deployed more than 10,000 satellites. Amazon Leo is also developing a large LEO constellation to provide broadband connectivity.
Jio’s planned network could have substantial capacity. Reports suggest each Jio satellite could provide approximately 100-150 Gbps, with the completed constellation potentially offering several terabits per second of capacity over India. Economic Times has reported a possible capacity of up to 4.8 Tbps once the network is fully deployed.
Satellite Internet for Rural India
One of the key objectives of Jio’s satellite network is to provide connectivity to underserved and remote areas where conventional fibre and mobile networks can be difficult or expensive to deploy.
Jio is also reportedly planning 20-22 ground stations to support its satellite services. The company could eventually offer broadband connections as well as satellite-enabled mobile connectivity.
Boost for India’s Space and Telecom Sector
The project has already received significant regulatory attention. India’s space regulator IN-SPACe has assessed Jio’s proposed constellation as technically sound, following evaluation involving ISRO and the Department of Telecommunications’ Wireless Planning and Coordination wing.
If successfully deployed, Jio’s satellite network could strengthen India’s domestic satellite communications capabilities while increasing competition in the country’s emerging satellite broadband market.