Mukesh Ambani’s Jio Cleared for Massive 1,600-Satellite Network, Outpacing Starlink and Amazon in India’s Space Data Race

India’s space regulator, IN-SPACe, has cleared a major proposal by Reliance Jio to deploy a network of 1,600 Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The technical clearance, completed in consultation with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Department of Telecommunications (DoT), positions the Mukesh Ambani-led firm to build the country’s first large-scale, homegrown satellite internet constellation.

With this regulatory nod, Reliance Jio significantly outpaces its global rivals in the space data race for the Indian market. The approved plan allows Jio to deliver a total data capacity of 4.5 to 5 Terabits per second (Tbps) across the country. By comparison, Elon Musk’s Starlink holds approval for 600 Gigabits per second (Gbps) over India, whilst Amazon’s Project Kuiper—which aims for a 3 Tbps capacity—is yet to secure its technical authorisation from IN-SPACe.

The clearance marks a crucial milestone for Jio, allowing the company to proceed with international filings for orbital slots with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The government will now provide regulatory support to assist the Indian telecom firm in coordinating with other satellite operators to prevent signal interference. As part of the rollout, Jio plans to establish 20 to 22 ground stations across India to support its satellite broadband, cellular backhaul, and direct-to-device mobile services.

Beyond its commercial scale, the project carries significant national security implications. Discussions are already underway to integrate defence-related payloads directly into the satellite network. If finalised, the domestic LEO network will provide India with secure communication capabilities, reducing the nation's dependence on foreign satellite internet providers during periods of geopolitical conflict.
Whilst the technical evaluation is complete, Jio must still secure final international orbital rights and complete its ground infrastructure before the first satellites can lift off.