Viasat has partnered with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to deliver satellite communication services across aviation, maritime, defence, and private enterprise sectors in India.
Operating under BSNL’s existing licence, Viasat is preparing to roll out direct-to-device (D2D) satellite services. The initial phase will enable two-way messaging, with full internet capabilities expected to follow. The collaboration could position BSNL as one of the country’s first telecom players to offer satellite-based communication services.
Further, the D2D service will allow select smartphones, including the Google Pixel, to connect directly to satellites. For other devices, a small external accessory known as a ‘puck’ will facilitate two-way satellite messaging. This device has already demonstrated reliability in emergency situations in other global markets.
Additionally, Viasat has secured satellite authorisation from IN-SPACe for its GX4 satellite under India’s Spacecom Policy.
Earlier, in October 2024, BSNL and Viasat jointly demonstrated India’s first satellite-based messaging service on a regular smartphone, using an indigenously developed system.
