Jio Eyes Connectivity Beyond Earth with 1,600 Satellites and 23 Ground Stations
IMC theme ‘Scale Without Boundaries’; Jio looks beyond terrestrial networks into space; has vision to reach over 600,000 villages, connect maritime and border regions
New Delhi: After mobile networks and fibre on the ground, Jio is now looking towards space. The company is working on a proposed constellation of around 1,600 satellites and plans to establish 23 ground stations across India. The objective is to extend connectivity to areas where terrestrial networks are difficult to deploy. Jio has showcased this satellite vision at the ongoing India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2026 in Delhi.
Jio has termed the initiative ‘Sovereign Satellite Connectivity. The proposed constellation comprises around 1,600 Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The company’s vision is to maintain control within India across the entire value chain, from design, engineering, integration and testing to launch, deployment and operations.
The 23 proposed ground stations will play a critical role in the plan. These stations will connect the satellite network to India’s terrestrial infrastructure. Jio also plans to integrate the satellite network with its existing terrestrial network.
Jio’s display showcases a vision of 100% coverage across landmass and maritime areas, with connectivity reaching more than 600,000 village. Remote villages, island territories and border outposts are among the key focus areas. The potential applications also include enterprise connectivity, remote sites, aviation, maritime services, government, defence and disaster response. The display also refers to Direct-to-Device (D2D) calling for rural areas.
This year’s India Mobile Congress is themed ‘Scale Without Boundaries’. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 10th edition of IMC on Thursday. The theme reflects the vision of taking technology and connectivity beyond traditional boundaries. Jio’s satellite initiative is a technological example of this approach, extending network connectivity beyond the limitations of towers and fibre through space-based infrastructure.
For now, both the 1,600 satellites and 23 ground stations remain part of a proposed plan. However, the direction is clear. Jio is preparing to integrate terrestrial and space-based networks and take connectivity to its next frontier beyond the ground.