BSNL, Viasat to support next phase of Indian Navy’s satellite communications upgrade
New Delhi, January 16. State-run telecom firm Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and US-based satellite communications company Viasat Inc. have announced their participation in the next phase of the Indian Navy’s satellite communications (SATCOM) modernisation programme, which is scheduled to begin later this month.
As part of an agreement between BSNL and the Indian defence forces, Viasat’s high-capacity Ka-band satellite systems will be integrated with its existing L-band infrastructure to strengthen connectivity for Indian naval platforms. The programme will be supported by Viasat’s international government team under its communication services division.
The upgrade is aimed at helping the Indian Navy move towards a multi-band, multi-constellation SATCOM architecture. By leveraging BSNL’s Gateway Earth Station along with Viasat’s global satellite network, the initiative is expected to deliver wider coverage, higher data throughput and improved reliability for mission-critical naval operations.
Viasat has been a long-term technology partner of the Government of India, providing satellite communication services across a range of strategic and civilian sectors. Its work includes support for disaster response networks, tsunami early warning systems operated by the National Institute of Ocean Technology, vessel tracking services for the Directorate General of Shipping, and aeronautical connectivity for both private and government aircraft.
Reaffirming BSNL’s role in defence communications, Chairman and Managing Director Robert Ravi said the company was proud to support the Navy’s SATCOM modernisation through its partnership with Viasat. He said the initiative reflects BSNL’s commitment to delivering resilient and secure infrastructure for India’s strategic communication requirements.
Viasat India Managing Director Gautam Sharma said the required equipment has already arrived in the country and installation work will commence this month. He described the development as a key milestone in the ongoing collaboration between Viasat, BSNL and the Indian defence forces.
Todd McDonell, President of International Government at Viasat, said the combination of L-band resilience with high-throughput Ka-band capability would significantly enhance connectivity for mission-critical operations, while underlining the company’s long-term commitment to India’s defence and maritime communications ecosystem.
