Starlink Seeks India Clearance for 30,000-Satellite Gen 2 Fleet With Direct-to-Device

Starlink has reapplied to India's space regulator for approval of its Gen 2 satellite constellation, seeking authorization for nearly 30,000 satellites in low Earth orbit. The application includes direct-to-device connectivity, positioning the company to enter one of the world's largest and most contested mobile markets with its most advanced product.

The filing comes as India moves to finalize rules for satellite-based mobile services and considers expanding satcom spectrum access. This is a reapplication, meaning an earlier attempt to secure approval did not succeed.

The new application requests nearly 30,000 satellites under the Gen 2 program. Its defining feature is the addition of direct-to-device connectivity, a capability not included in the prior effort. By combining Gen 2 and direct-to-device in a single filing, SpaceX appears to be seeking entry into India with its latest generation of technology rather than a legacy version.

India is finalizing the regulatory framework for satellite-based mobile services, and the timing of Starlink's reapplication aligns with that process. The country is one of the largest mobile markets on Earth, making the outcome of the review significant for both satellite operators and terrestrial telecom incumbents.

The inclusion of direct-to-device capability represents a direct challenge to established terrestrial telecom operators in India. If the market opens to Starlink, it could be transformative for the company's revenue and stands as one of the most consequential expansion opportunities in its history.

The next step rests with India's space regulator, which is reviewing the reapplication as it works to finalize satellite-based mobile service rules and decide on expanded satcom spectrum access.