Tech Desk: India is reportedly mulling a significant new security measure for foreign satellite internet providers, a move that could create further hurdles for Elon Musk’s Starlink. This proposed hardware-based system aims to route all foreign satcom traffic through a government-controlled security layer, directly addressing national security concerns and Starlink’s ongoing regulatory compliance issues.

The potential device, likely installed at subscriber locations or ground stations, would ensure all satellite communications are monitored and controlled by a sovereign security system. This discussion comes amid persistent disagreements between the Indian government and Starlink over meeting local infrastructure requirements, which officials say are delaying service approval. Starlink’s claims of discriminatory treatment have been rejected, with the government emphasizing that all operators, including Eutelsat OneWeb and Jio Satellite, must adhere to security conditions for spectrum allocation.

Concerns are amplified by Starlink’s controversial operations in countries like Iran, Namibia, and South Africa, where it allegedly operated without proper permissions, as well as recent allegations from Ukraine regarding service disruptions. Officials warn that relying on large low-Earth-orbit satellite networks run by foreign entities without sovereign security measures poses significant risks, particularly during conflicts.

Globally, major powers like Russia, China, and the European Union (via Eutelsat OneWeb) operate their own satellite systems. India, too, expects Reliance Jio to launch its LEO constellation soon, underscoring the nation’s push for greater control over critical communication infrastructure and enhancing Starlink India security.