Bharti Group-backed satcom provider Eutelsat OneWeb has requested immediate security approval from Indian authorities to launch its low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services in India. The company has been awaiting this clearance for over 18 months after completing its security compliance demonstration in January 2025, according to inc42.com. Many of OneWeb’s satellites are nearing the end of their operational lives, raising concerns about potential service disruptions if approvals are further delayed.
OneWeb submitted all required data related to its security demonstration and addressed additional queries from law enforcement agencies, the Economic Times reported. The clearance process involves requirements for lawful interception, network monitoring, and localization of critical network functions. The company was the first to secure a GMPCS license in India in August 2021 and initially planned to launch services in 2022, but the rollout has been repeatedly delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict affecting satellite launches and pending regulatory approvals.
The delay in security approval underscores challenges faced by satellite communication providers in India amid geopolitical tensions and regulatory scrutiny. OneWeb’s situation highlights the broader impact of international conflicts on satellite deployment timelines. The company’s early licensing and efforts to comply with Indian security norms position it as a key player in the country’s satellite internet sector, which is increasingly important for expanding connectivity in remote areas.
OneWeb’s next critical milestone is obtaining the security nod from the Department of Telecommunications, which will enable it to commercially launch its services in India. The company’s satellites are approaching the end of their operational lifespan, making timely approval essential to avoid service interruptions and capitalize on the growing demand for satellite-based internet connectivity.