BSNL and Viasat India have announced a strategic collaboration to advance satellite communication skills and commercial UAV services in India. Unveiled at India Mobile Congress 2025, the partnership aims to enhance workforce readiness, promote emerging technologies, and accelerate the deployment of uncrewed aircraft systems for industrial and public service applications.
BSNL-Viasat Alliance Targets India’s Satellite and UAV Future
In a landmark announcement at the India Mobile Congress 2025, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Viasat India revealed a new collaboration focused on developing satellite technology skills and commercial UAV (Uncrewed Aerial Vehicle) services across India. The initiative is designed to strengthen India’s digital infrastructure and workforce capabilities in advanced air mobility and satellite communications.
The partnership will support training programs, industry certifications, and pilot projects aimed at integrating satellite connectivity with UAV operations. This move aligns with India’s broader goals of expanding rural connectivity, enhancing disaster response capabilities, and fostering innovation in sectors like agriculture, logistics, and surveillance.
Viasat India, a subsidiary of the global satellite communications leader Viasat Inc., brings deep expertise in satellite-to-device services, while BSNL offers nationwide telecom infrastructure and regulatory support. Together, they aim to create a robust ecosystem for next-generation connectivity and aerial intelligence.
Key Highlights and Strategic Takeaways
- Collaboration Launch: Announced on October 24, 2025, during India Mobile Congress in New Delhi.
- Focus Areas: Satellite technology skill development, commercial UAV deployment, and advanced air mobility solutions.
- Training & Certification: Joint programs to upskill professionals in satellite communications and UAV operations.
- Infrastructure Synergy: BSNL’s telecom backbone will support Viasat’s satellite-to-device innovations and UAV integration.
- Use Case Expansion: Targeted applications include agriculture monitoring, emergency response, logistics, and remote connectivity.
- Policy Alignment: Supports India’s digital inclusion and aerospace innovation goals under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT).
This collaboration marks a significant step toward building a future-ready workforce and deploying cutting-edge technologies that can transform India’s connectivity and aerial intelligence landscape.
Sources: Viasat Newsroom, BharatNet, Communications Today.