BSNL, Viasat to deploy Ka-band satcom for next phase of Indian Navy upgrade

Satcom

State-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) and Viasat Inc, a global leader in sat communication, will deploy high-capacity Ka-band satellite systems to power the next phase of the Indian Navy’s satellite communications modernisation programme, with on-ground implementation set to begin later this month.

Under an agreement between BSNL and the Indian defence forces, Viasat’s high-capacity Ka-band systems will be deployed alongside its existing L-band infrastructure to deliver more secure, resilient and higher-throughput connectivity across naval platforms. The programme will be supported by Viasat’s international government team under its Communication Services segment.

“BSNL is proud to support the Indian Navy’s SATCOM modernisation by delivering advanced, resilient connectivity through our partnership with Viasat,” chairman and managing director Robert Ravi said.

The upgrade marks a shift toward a multi-band, multi-constellation SATCOM architecture. By combining BSNL’s Gateway Earth Station with Viasat’s global satellite network, the Indian Navy is expected to gain wider coverage, faster data rates and improved reliability for mission-critical operations at sea.

Viasat said the programme builds on its long-standing work with the Government of India across defence and civilian domains. The company has previously supported disaster-response networks, tsunami early-warning systems via the National Institute of Ocean Technology, vessel tracking for the Directorate General of Shipping, and aeronautical connectivity for government and private aircraft.

“With the equipment already in India and installation activities starting this month, we are pleased to support the Navy as it modernises its satellite communications,” Viasat India managing director Gautam Sharma said.

Todd McDonell, president, International Government at Viasat, said the integration of L-band resilience with high-throughput Ka-band capacity would significantly enhance connectivity for mission-critical naval operations, underscoring the company’s long-term commitment to India’s defence and maritime communications ecosystem.