Starlink Reapplies in India for Direct-to-Device Tech

NEW DELHI — SpaceX satellite unit Starlink has renewed its push to expand its footprint in India, resubmitting an official application to the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) for authorization of its Generation 2 (Gen 2) satellite constellation.

The latest regulatory filing incorporates advanced technological features, most notably direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity designed to link low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites directly with standard mobile phones. The move follows IN-SPACe's approval of Starlink's traditional Gen 1 broadband constellation in July 2025, positioning the company to pursue next-generation mobile satellite services as Indian regulatory frameworks evolve.

Expanding Low Earth Orbit Architecture and D2D Capabilities

The newly submitted application seeks clearance for approximately 30,000 satellites operating in low-earth orbit at altitudes between 340 and 615 kilometers. While Starlink's Gen 1 infrastructure focuses on conventional fixed broadband terminals, the Gen 2 architecture introduces specialized phased array antennas capable of delivering cellular broadband, messaging, and data services directly to unmodified LTE handsets in areas lacking terrestrial tower coverage.

According to industry reports, regulatory disclosures, and telecommunications updates:

• Gen 2 Constellation Filing: Starlink has reapplied to IN-SPACe for authorization of its advanced Gen 2 low-earth orbit satellite network.

• Direct-to-Device Focus: The application includes direct-to-device capabilities, aligning with emerging policy considerations for satellite-to-cellular integration in India.

• Previous Approvals: The fresh filing follows the clearance of Starlink's 4,408-satellite Gen 1 broadband constellation, which received national space agency authorization in mid-2025.

• Regulatory Evolution: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) are actively reviewing operational frameworks and spectrum allocation rules for D2D services.

Official Sources Section

• Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe): Official regulatory filings, space asset authorizations, and LEO constellation compliance reviews.

• Department of Telecommunications (DoT), Government of India: Telecommunications policy announcements, spectrum allocation guidelines, and satellite licensing frameworks.

• SpaceX Official Corporate Communications: Global satellite deployment disclosures and technical capabilities for Starlink Mobile architectures.

Quote Section

According to statements from individuals familiar with the regulatory filings regarding the new application:

"The company has recently applied to get authorisation for its Gen 2 constellation in low earth orbit, seeking to introduce advanced direct-to-device connectivity alongside traditional broadband as Indian space and telecom regulations evolve."

Why It Matters

For telecom operators, mobile consumers, and technology investors, the introduction of direct-to-device satellite capabilities represents the next frontier in seamless connectivity. If approved, satellite-to-cellular integration will bridge coverage gaps in remote terrain, though traditional domestic telcos continue to advocate for a level playing field regarding licensing and regulatory compliance.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Applicant: Starlink (subsidiary of SpaceX).

• Regulatory Body: IN-SPACe (Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre).

• Application Scope: Authorization for Gen 2 LEO constellation featuring direct-to-device (D2D) technology.

• Orbit Altitude: Proposed satellite deployment between 340 and 615 kilometers.

FAQ Section

Why did Starlink re-apply to Indian space regulators? Starlink resubmitted its application to seek authorization for its Gen 2 satellite constellation, incorporating advanced direct-to-device (D2D) capabilities not covered under its previous Gen 1 broadband approval.

What is direct-to-device (D2D) satellite technology? D2D technology enables low-earth orbit satellites to communicate directly with standard mobile phones, providing cellular coverage, messaging, and data services in areas without terrestrial tower access.

Are commercial D2D services currently active in India? No, India is currently formulating regulatory frameworks and evaluating spectrum bands for satellite-based mobile services through consultations involving the DoT and TRAI.

Where can stakeholders review official space regulatory guidelines? Official policy updates, licensing norms, and space authorization notices are published directly on the IN-SPACe and Department of Telecommunications portals.

Source: The Economic Times, IN-SPACe, Department of Telecommunications, SpaceX