Viasat Explores Small GEO Satellite Manufacturing in India to Enhance Connectivity Services

What's Happening?

Viasat, a global satellite company, is expanding its focus on connectivity solutions for defense, in-flight, and maritime sectors by exploring the manufacturing of geostationary Earth orbit (GEO) satellites in India. The company is in discussions with Indian startups to manufacture smaller GEO satellites, which are more economical and easier to produce. Viasat aims to integrate its payloads with locally developed subsystems to enable cost-effective satellite launches from India. The company has partnered with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) to provide direct-to-device services and is looking to scale this business. Viasat leverages its partnership with Eutelsat's OneWeb low Earth orbit (LEO) constellation to provide multi-orbit connectivity for maritime services.

Why It's Important?

Viasat's initiative to manufacture small GEO satellites in India represents a significant shift in satellite production, potentially reducing costs and increasing accessibility to satellite technology. This move could enhance India's capabilities in satellite manufacturing and launch, fostering local industry growth and innovation. The partnership with BSNL and focus on multi-orbit connectivity could improve communication services in India, benefiting sectors like defense, aviation, and maritime. As the consumer satellite broadband segment heats up, Viasat's strategic positioning could offer competitive advantages against players like Starlink and Amazon's Project Kuiper.

What's Next?

Viasat plans to continue discussions with Indian startups and government entities to form partnerships for satellite manufacturing. The company aims to scale its direct-to-device services in collaboration with BSNL and expand its in-flight connectivity offerings in India. As policy changes open new opportunities for satellite companies, Viasat's focus on multi-orbit and multiband connectivity could lead to further innovations and partnerships in the satellite industry.