After Jio, Bharti Group-Backed OneWeb Secures Broadband ISP License For Satellite-Based Internet Services

Jio Satellite Communications and OneWeb, supported by Bharti Enterprises, have obtained crucial Internet Service Provider (ISP) licenses from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), enabling them to offer broadband internet services to end-users via satellite.

Both companies now possess pan-India ISP licenses, a pivotal regulatory step for delivering internet connectivity through satellite or mobile networks, as reported by Business Standard.

This development, coupled with clarity on satellite spectrum allotment, sets the stage for the commercial launch of satellite-based internet services.

The DoT has already granted OneWeb and Jio Satellite the essential global mobile personal communication by satellite services (GMPCS) license, a prerequisite for providing satellite-based broadband services in India.

With the newly acquired ISP licenses, these companies can extend broadband services directly to end users at their residences and workplaces.

While Jio Satellite secured its ISP license a month ago, OneWeb received ISP A (national area) and very small aperture terminal (VSAT) licenses on Wednesday (8 November).

VSAT, a critical component with data transmission capabilities, plays a significant role in delivering broadband internet services, especially to homes and offices.

VSAT devices, equipped with antennas, are commonly used for transmitting and receiving data, voice, and video signals.

Having obtained both GMPCS and ISP licenses, Jio Satellite and OneWeb are poised for the commercial deployment of their satellite-based internet services. The final milestone involves gaining clarity on the allotment of the satellite spectrum.

Reliance Jio Infocomm had previously previewed its satellite-based broadband service, JioSpaceFiber, at the India Mobile Congress on 27 October.

The service, known for providing high-speed broadband in previously inaccessible regions of India, is expected to be available nationwide at affordable prices.

During the same event, Bharti Airtel Chairman Sunil Bharti Mittal announced that OneWeb had completed its constellation of over 618 low earth orbit satellites.

This achievement positions OneWeb to offer broadband internet services globally from space.