Starlink's India launch delayed as security concerns stall approval

India’s security agencies have halted the final regulatory approval for Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite‑internet service, citing concerns that the technology could be used in geopolitical conflicts such as the war in Iran. The agencies said control of the network during internal unrest or external crises could be difficult and raised questions about foreign ownership of critical communications infrastructure.

Starlink refuted reports that the approval process was stopped. Vice‑President of Business Operations Lauren Drayer said the company is in “active and positive discussion” with the Indian government, has received a Letter of Intent, and is awaiting the final licence. Drayer stressed that Starlink has complied with all regulatory and security requirements and is ready to launch a deployment model that respects India’s technical sovereignty.

The contrasting statements leave the launch timeline uncertain while the company seeks to bring high‑speed internet to remote and underserved areas of the world’s most populous democracy.