Centre Mulls Hardware Security Layer For Starlink, Other Satcom Operators

The Centre is reportedly considering developing a hardware device to strengthen security oversight of satellite internet services offered by Starlink and other overseas operators.

The proposed device would act as a control layer between users and satellite networks, with all satellite traffic routed through it, ET reported, citing people familiar with the discussions. The hardware could be installed at subscriber premises or satellite ground stations.

The government is considering involving public sector R&D units with communications technology expertise, while keeping participation by select private players open.

An official cited in the report said the security layer would address risks associated with foreign satellite operators that may be treated as untrusted transport carriers. The proposal remains under discussion, with its technical specifications and implementation timeline yet to be finalised.

Satellite broadband could help connect remote communities and businesses where terrestrial networks are difficult or expensive to deploy.

Starlink, Jio, OneWeb Await Clearances

The development comes after Elon Musk accused Indian business interests of blocking Starlink’s entry to protect their telecom operations. He also targeted Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, questioning whether he was the “real boss of India”.

Reliance rejected the allegations, saying it welcomed competition, including from Starlink. It added that Jio’s satellite services were also awaiting government clearances.

The Ministry of Communications also denied allegations of preferential treatment, maintaining that Starlink, Reliance Jio Satellite Communications, and Bharti Enterprises-backed Eutelsat OneWeb are at broadly the same regulatory stage.

All three operators have received Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) licences. However, they must complete security assessments and meet the relevant conditions before spectrum can be assigned and commercial services launched.

Obtaining a licence and IN-SPACe authorisation does not mean an operator has completed its security assessment or secured spectrum.

Security Concerns Drive Scrutiny

The proposed hardware layer reflects concerns about foreign operators controlling critical communications infrastructure, particularly during conflicts or other national security emergencies.

Starlink’s role in Ukraine has brought such risks into focus, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accusing the company of slowing connection speeds and impeding operations during the conflict with Russia. Other countries like Iran and South Africa also raised concerns about Starlink’s operations or authorisations in the past.

Speaking to Inc42 last week, Innefu Labs cofounder and CEO Tarun Wig said foreign-controlled satellite networks could create risks around data sovereignty, service continuity, and external control over critical communications infrastructure. However, he said that the circumstances in Ukraine did not automatically mean India would face the same risks.

Quantive Advisory founder Sohom Banerjee highlighted operational checks covering who can activate terminals, change routing or coverage, access sensitive network information, and suspend services.

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