Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Viasat will support the next phase of the Indian Navy’s satellite communications upgrade programme, set to begin later this month.
The companies announced the development as part of the Navy’s ongoing efforts to modernise its communication systems. The programme will use Viasat’s high-capacity Ka-band satellite systems alongside its existing L-band infrastructure.
L-band offers weather-penetrating signals ideal for navigation, while Ka-band is ideal for broadband and streaming.
The deployment follows an agreement between BSNL and the Indian Armed Forces, and aims to provide secure, resilient connectivity for Indian naval platforms. Viasat confirmed that equipment for the programme has already arrived in India. Installation activities are scheduled to begin this month, marking the start of the upgrade’s new phase.
Robert Ravi, chairman and MD of BSNL, said the partnership reflects the company’s role in supporting strategic communication needs. “BSNL is proud to support the Indian Navy’s SATCOM modernisation by providing advanced connectivity solutions through our partnership with Viasat,” he noted in a statement.
Under the arrangement, BSNL will work with Viasat to deliver satellite services that support mission-critical naval operations. Viasat’s international government team will support the programme through its Communication Services segment.
The upgrade will allow the Indian Navy to move towards a multi-band, multi-constellation satellite communications strategy. The programme will leverage BSNL’s Gateway Earth Station and Viasat’s global satellite network to expand coverage and increase data throughput for naval operations.
According to the companies, integrating Ka-band and L-band systems will improve operational reliability at sea. The approach is designed to ensure continuity of communications across different operational conditions.
Gautam Sharma, managing director of Viasat India, said the deployment represents progress in the partnership with Indian defence agencies. “With the equipment having arrived in India and installation activities set to begin this month, we are proud to support the Indian Navy in modernising its satellite communication capabilities,” he said.
Viasat has worked with Indian government agencies across several sectors, including disaster response networks and maritime tracking. The company also provides aeronautical connectivity services for government and private aircraft in India.
BSNL and Viasat said they remain committed to supporting India’s defence and maritime communication modernisation as the programme moves into its next stage.
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