India's Ministry of Home Affairs security agencies blocked final clearances for SpaceX’s satellite internet service Starlink to start commercial operations, citing security concerns tied to the use of Starlink terminals in the Iran war [1, 2, 3, 4]. Authorities were alarmed after reports that Starlink equipment was used without licensing during the Middle East conflict, fueling worries about controlling a U.S.-based operator amid geopolitical tensions [1, 2, 3, 4].
Starlink secured a Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license in India about a year ago, allowing preparatory steps for launch. The company also signed agreements with Indian telecom companies Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio in 2025 to bring services locally [1, 3, 4]. However, the broader regulatory approvals remain pending, as India’s Department of Telecommunications has finalized satellite spectrum pricing but has yet to submit the framework for cabinet approval [1, 2, 3, 4].
Starlink has expanded to over 150 countries with 10.3 million global subscribers, doubling customer count in the last year, though it faces challenges entering markets like India due to security and regulatory hurdles [5, 3]. SpaceX’s CFO Bret Johnsen emphasized the growth potential, saying, "10 million customers can become hundreds of millions of customers around the world in time, because it’s so much more efficient to deliver to so many different locations from space than it is terrestrially" [5].
Lauren Dreyer, Starlink’s VP of Business Operations, said the company is “in active and productive discussions with the government of India” and has designed “a bespoke deployment model for India that further demonstrates our commitment to working within India’s strategic framework,” addressing sovereign technology and security needs [2]. She disputed reports based on anonymous sources, saying Starlink continues engagement with Indian authorities [6].
The freeze on approvals comes days ahead of SpaceX’s planned June 12 Nasdaq IPO, which is targeting a $1.75 trillion valuation driven in large part by Starlink revenue [1, 2, 4]. India’s caution reflects concerns over potential conflicting demands from foreign governments during geopolitical tensions, and its ability to enforce compliance with local security mandates [1, 2, 3, 4].
The immediate next step is the expected SpaceX IPO scheduled for June 12, with India’s regulatory approvals for Starlink’s commercial launch remaining on hold as discussions continue.
