In a significant partnership, London-based company OneWeb and the Gujarat Government’s Science and Technology Department have joined hands by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a ‘Satellite Network Portal Site’ in Gujarat, India. The primary objective of this portal site is to provide affordable and reliable connectivity to various sectors, including the government, offering continuous and secure satellite internet access at affordable rates nationwide.
Under the agreement, OneWeb will set up a private ‘satellite network portal site’ in the Mehsana district of Gujarat, specifically in Jotana taluka. The site aims to provide high-speed, low-latency, and affordable connectivity to the government, businesses, consumers, schools, and other institutions.
The launch of the satellite network portal in Katosan and Tejpura, Jotana taluka, Gujarat, is scheduled for 2023, with an estimated cost of over Rs 100 crores for its Phase-1. This ambitious project is also expected to generate approximately 500 direct and indirect employment opportunities in the state, further contributing to Gujarat’s economic growth.
OneWeb is renowned for its Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology and operates a constellation of 648 satellites, aiming to establish a global communication network. Unlike traditional geostationary satellites, LEO satellites offer broadband Internet access with lower latency, resulting in efficient network services with latencies of less than 100 ms. In comparison, GEO-based networks have latencies of 500-700 ms.
Already operational in Europe and Canada, OneWeb’s LEO technology provides cost-effective satellite connectivity services to mobile network operators and Internet service providers. Now, with its expansion into India, OneWeb seeks to empower the country with reliable and affordable satellite connectivity.
The entry of OneWeb into India’s market is likely to attract other players as well, as they will seek to offer satellite internet services and compete head-on to provide enhanced connectivity services across the country. This competition is expected to drive further innovation and advancements in the field of satellite communication technology, ultimately benefiting consumers and various sectors in India.
