Musk, Ambani Join Hands in Surprise Starlink Internet Deal

The two tycoons who had been at odds over airwaves to bring satellite services to India

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NEW DELHI - Mr Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Jio signed a deal with Mr Elon Musk's SpaceX to bring Starlink satellite internet services to India, a surprise move from the billionaires after being at odds for months over how the country should grant them spectrum.

India's largest telecom operator will stock Starlink equipment in its retail stores, giving Starlink a direct distribution point in thousands of such outlets across the country.

Mr Musk, who is SpaceX's chief executive officer, and Mr Ambani had fought intensely over how airwaves should be assigned for satellite internet.

Reliance has been concerned that Mr Musk could dominate the telecom space once he launches his products, but the distribution deal will eventually see the Indian billionaire offering his rival's products in the fast-growing market, while also competing with them.

"While it has been surprising, it is a prudent strategy for Starlink to enter the India market and a win-win for all the parties involved earlier competing for the pie, and now cooperating and sharing," said Mr Neil Shah, co-founder of research firm Counterpoint.