Reliance Jio Plans 1,600-Satellite Network, Test Flight Next Year

Reliance Jio aims to build a large satellite internet network, and more communication services. As per The Economic Times news report, the firm is eyeing a test flight in September next calendar year, with a broader launch from early 2028. 

Jio has obtained the necessary orbital slots from International Telecommunication Union (ITU). One of which will be a second-generation, approximately 1,600 satellite network in low Earth orbit (LEO). 

Jio Plans First Satellite Test in 2027 

As per the report, in the first test, Jio intends to send a few satellites into orbit just to basically see if the hardware, software and other infrastructure all function as they should. 

The company aims to begin with about 90-100 satellite post-test. These could be operational in India for satellite services as early as 2028. 

After aiming for 400-450 satnets by 2030,Jio aims to complete the entire network of 1,600 satnets by 2035. 

Focus on Broadband and Remote Areas 

Jio plans to use the network mainly to provide high-speed broadband in areas where regular internet services are difficult to provide. 

The company is also looking at services such as fixed satellite broadband, cellular backhaul and mobile satellite services that can connect directly to devices. It plans to set up around 20-22 ground stations. 

The satellites are expected to operate at an altitude of about 650 km. Jio has chosen this orbit as there are fewer existing or planned LEO satellite networks at that level. 

India Could Get 4-4.8 Gbps Capacity 

The planned satellites could provide a capacity of around 100-150 gigabits per second per satellite. Once the network is fully deployed, around 30-32 satellites would be over India at a given time. 

This could give India around 4-4.8 Gbps of capacity at any given time. The plan also puts a focus on connecting underserved areas. 

Read More: TCS Share Price in Focus After Winning ₹122 Crore Odisha Government Project! 

Conclusion 

Reliance Jio is working on a 1,600-satellite LEO network, with a test flight planned for next year. The company plans to start with around 90-100 satellites in 2028 and gradually expand the network to 400-450 satellites by 2030. 

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