The agreement is the first to be signed between the two companies, and is subject to SpaceX receiving its own government authorisations to sell Starlink in India.

The partners say the agreement enables them to further explore how Starlink can complement and expand Airtel’s offerings, and how Airtel’s expertise in the Indian market complements SpaceX’s direct offerings to consumers and businesses.

"Airtel and SpaceX will explore offering Starlink equipment in Airtel’s retail stores, Starlink services via Airtel to business customers, opportunities to connect communities, schools, and health centres, among many others, in even the most rural parts of India," Airtel says in it announcement.

"Airtel and SpaceX will also explore how Starlink could help expand and enhance the Airtel network, as well as SpaceX’s ability to utilise and benefit from Airtel’s ground network infrastructure and other capabilities in India."

According to Airtel, Starlink enterprise suite will enable Airtel to offer enterprises, businesses, and communities comprehensive and seamless connectivity packages.

“Working with SpaceX to offer Starlink to Airtel customers in India is a significant milestone and further demonstrates our commitment to next-generation satellite connectivity,” said Gopal Vittal, Managing Director and Vice Chairman, Bharti Airtel Ltd.

“This collaboration enhances our ability to bring world-class high-speed broadband to even the most remote parts of India, ensuring that every individual, business, and community has reliable internet.

"Starlink will complement and enhance Airtel’s suite of products to ensure reliable and affordable broadband for our Indian customers – wherever they live and work.

“Technology is always evolving and we’re committed to staying at the forefront of innovation so that we can continue to bring the best connectivity experience for our customers.

"This includes collaborating with global leaders like SpaceX to extend our reach and add new coverage to customers throughout all of India.”

Gwynne Shotwell, President and Chief Operating Officer of SpaceX said working with Airtel would unlock the transformative impact Starlink can bring to the people of India.

"We are constantly amazed by the incredible and inspiring things that people, businesses and organisations do when they are connected via Starlink,” said Shotwell.

“The team at Airtel has played a pivotal role in India’s telecom story, so working with them to complement our direct offering makes great sense for our business.”