After OneWeb & SpaceX, Now US’ Viasat Seeks India’s Nod For Launching Satellite-Based Broadband Services

After Bharti Enterprises-backed OneWeb and Elon Musk’s SpaceX, now United States (US)-based geostationary satellite major Viasat Inc has sought the Government's nod to deploy two new satellites for delivering advanced broadband connectivity solutions in India, reports Economic Times.

The $2.25-billion geostationary satellite operator is reportedly readying to launch fast internet-from-space services in India. Notably, OneWeb and Elon Musk-led SpaceX are scheduled to start satellite internet operations in the country next year.

As per the details shared by the company's spokesperson, it has filed applications with the Government and the relevant agencies to use two of its under-construction Ka-band ViaSat-3 satellites to serve India.

Viasat already has two offices in Chennai where its staff is working on satellites across platforms and gateways and is developing web applications and management systems for its products and broadband businesses.

As per the company's spokesperson, "Employees at our two Chennai offices influence almost every aspect of Viasat’s broadband business and are key players in its global expansion."

It should be noted that Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had said last year that the Government would create a level playing field for private satellite builders, satellite launchers, and space-based service providers under a new space communications policy.