Satellite Internet: Strategic, Economic, Security Impacts

Context:

Elon Musk’s Starlink is set to debut in India, signalling a significant shift in internet infrastructure and connectivity capabilities.

Satellite Internet as a Strategic Enabler and Security Challenge

Introduction

Satellite internet delivers broadband connectivity via satellites in Geostationary (GEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Low Earth Orbit (LEO).
Recent developments in LEO mega-constellations like Starlink have transformed satellite-based communications.

Why Satellite Internet is Needed

Limitations of Ground-Based Networks:
- Economically unviable in sparsely populated or remote areas.
- Vulnerable to natural disasters (floods, earthquakes).
- Inadequate for moving platforms (ships, aircraft) and temporary operations.
Advantages of Satellite Internet:
- Global Coverage: Independent of terrain and terrestrial infrastructure.
- Rapid Deployment: Useful in disaster management and sudden demand surges.
- Mobility Support: Ships, aircraft, oil rigs, military deployments.

Types of Satellite Orbits and Characteristics

Mega-Constellations (LEO)

Hundreds/thousands of satellites with on-board processing.
Optical inter-satellite links for global data routing without excessive ground reliance.
Requires continuous “hand-off” between satellites due to rapid orbital movement.

Applications of Satellite Internet

Civilian Uses:
- Remote area connectivity, telemedicine, precision agriculture, IoE (Internet of Everything).
- Direct-to-smartphone services under testing by Starlink& AST SpaceMobile.
Military Uses:
- Secure communications in conflict zones (e.g., Ukraine war).
- Operational readiness in isolated zones (e.g., Indian Army in Siachen).
- Drone integration, bypassing jamming systems.
Disaster Management:
- Restoring communications post natural disasters (Hurricane Harvey example).

Security and Regulatory Challenges

Strategic Significance

Connectivity as a dimension of national power.
Critical for digital economy growth, defence readiness, and bridging the digital divide.
India must ensure indigenous capacity and international policy influence.

Judicial Overreach in Stray Dog Management

Polity & Governance

International Relations

The Alaska Summit

International Relations

National Cooperative Development Corporation

Polity & Governance

Global Promotion of AYUSH Systems

International Relations

Economy