Globalstar To Expand In India, Seeks Earth Station Setup, GMPCS Authorisation
The satellite SOS services provider for Apple iPhones, intends to enter India's satcom market by forming a subsidiary, requesting for GMPCS approval
Globalstar, the satellite communications business best known for providing emergency SOS services for Apple's iPhones, is planning to enter the Indian market by becoming a wholly owned subsidiary. This move comes after the company recently applied for a GMPCS (global mobile personal communications via satellite services) authorisation and announced plans to establish a terrestrial earth station gateway in India.
Globalstar, which supplies Apple's satellite-based SOS services for iPhone models such as the 14 and 15 series, is broadening its worldwide reach by focussing on India's thriving satellite communications sector. In a 31 July submission to the Indian telecom regulator, Globalstar detailed its ambitions to get GMPCS authorisation and install a satellite earth station gateway in the nation. This expansion seeks to provide improved satellite communications services to Apple consumers in India while also establishing a direct operational presence in one of the world's largest untapped markets.
The company's expansion into India follows its aim of broadening its worldwide reach in the face of increasing competition from rival satellite operators such as Elon Musk's Starlink and Amazon-backed Project Kuiper. Globalstar's LEO (low earth orbit) satellite system, which provides near-global coverage, is likely to play an important part in its service offerings in India. The company's petition emphasises its commitment to meeting regulatory standards and guaranteeing seamless integration with India's current telecoms network.
Earlier this year, Globalstar applied for permission from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to launch services in India. The regulatory process for satellite-based services includes acquiring GMPCS permits and licenses from the Indian National Space Promotion & Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), which administers space sector rules. Currently, Eutelsat OneWeb and Orbit Connect India has these permits, while Starlink and Kuiper are still awaiting approval.
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (Trai) recently issued a consultation paper titled "Assignment of Spectrum for Space-based Communication Services," which was sent back to the DoT following the release of the new Telecommunication Act. Trai Chairman Anil Kumar Lahoti indicated that a consultation process would begin soon to finalise the terms of spectrum allotment for satellite services.
Globalstar's entry into the Indian market is expected to bring increased competition and innovation in the satcom sector, potentially increasing consumer service offerings and expanding the reach of satellite-based communications in the country.
