Starlink, Kuiper face stricter rules as India boosts satcom security

India’s revised satellite communication guidelines, added to Chapter XII of the Unified License Agreement, target emerging technologies like inter-satellite links and mobile services, aiming to bolster national security amid rising satellite-based connectivity adoption

In a significant move to tighten control over satellite-based internet services in India, the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced stringent new security guidelines for Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite (GMPCS) licensees. The revised conditions, which apply to both existing and new players in the satellite communications space, come at a time when global giants like Starlink and Amazon’s Project Kuiper are seeking to enter the Indian market.

The new guidelines, now incorporated into Chapter XII of the Unified License (UL) Agreement, are designed to address evolving satellite technologies, such as inter-satellite communication links and services offering both mobility and fixed facilities. These regulations aim to ensure greater national security, particularly as India anticipates a surge in satellite-driven connectivity.

One of the key provisions is the requirement for satellite internet providers to achieve 20% indigenisation of their ground infrastructure within five years of commencing commercial operations. This push for local manufacturing aims to reduce dependence on foreign technology and foster domestic production in the satellite communications sector. Companies must submit a phased manufacturing plan to meet this target.

Additionally, the guidelines mandate that GMPCS licensees must secure explicit security clearances for each proposed gateway hub within India. The companies will also need to implement robust monitoring systems and lawful interception capabilities before launching their services, ensuring that core network infrastructure is housed within the country.

Geo-fencing, data privacy enforced

Another key security measure includes geo-fencing technology to prevent signal overspill into neighboring countries, especially in sensitive border areas. The guidelines require that service providers limit coverage in such regions and allow for precise tracking and monitoring of terminal locations.

For high-sensitivity zones, including areas within 50 kilometers of international land borders and up to 200 nautical miles along the coast, service providers must work closely with security agencies. They are also mandated to block access to websites that have been banned in India, enabling metadata collection for the Telecom Security Operation Centre (TSOC).

The revised rules also introduce strict data sovereignty measures. All user traffic must be routed through Indian gateways, and the decryption or copying of Indian telecom data outside the country is strictly prohibited. To ensure data privacy and compliance, the guidelines stipulate that all satellite operations-related data centers and DNS resolution services must be located within India.

NaviC integration, NGSO compliance mandated

Furthermore, the guidelines set forth a deadline of 2029 for the integration of India’s NaviC satellite navigation system into user terminals. The DoT has also outlined technical standards for non-geostationary satellite networks (NGSO), including Earth Stations in Motion (ESIM) and Transportable Earth Stations (TES), which must be fully adhered to before launching services in India.