Reliance Jio and SES, a global satellite-based content connectivity solutions provider based in Luxembourg, have formed a joint venture to provide broadband services in India through satellite technology, according to a press release on February 14. The equity stake in the joint venture, Jio Space Technology Limited, will be in the ratio of 51 (Jio): 49 (SES), the release added. Jio Space will be using satellite technology such as multi-orbit space networks to provide broadband services. The company also informed that the network will consist of geostationary (GEO) and medium earth orbit (MEO) satellite constellations. Jio has also entered into a multi-year capacity purchase agreement, based on certain milestones, along with gateways and equipment purchase, for $100 million as an anchor customer in the JV. The entry of Reliance Jio shows that the broadband-from-space sector is shaping up to be the next battleground for telcos. What do we know about the joint venture? Jio, in its press release, said that the joint venture will deliver multi-gigabit links (up to 100 Gbps) and cloud capacity to enterprises, mobile backhaul, and retail customers across India and neighbouring regions. As part of the investment plan, the joint venture will develop extensive gateway infrastructure in India to provide services within the country. The joint venture will be the entity through which SES’s satellite data and connectivity services will be provided in India. An exception will be made for certain international aeronautical and maritime customers. Jio will offer managed services and gateway infrastructure operations services to the joint…
