Jio plans 1,600-satellite network to provide internet across India

Jio is planning to deploy approximately 1,600 satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO) to provide satellite internet services across India. The satellites are intended to orbit at an altitude of about 650 kilometers, aiming to deliver broadband connectivity to remote, rural, and mountainous regions where installing mobile towers or fiber optic cables is difficult or impractical.

The company’s rollout strategy includes conducting test flights with a limited number of satellites in 2027. Following these tests, Jio plans to begin large-scale launches in early 2028. The long-term roadmap aims to establish a network of 400 to 500 satellites by 2030, eventually reaching the full 1,600-satellite constellation by 2035.

This initiative positions Jio to compete directly with global satellite internet providers such as Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper (Leo) service. While Starlink operates satellites at an altitude of roughly 550 kilometers, Jio’s network will operate at 650 kilometers.