Elon Musk Takes On the Tycoon Building a $10 Billion Rival to Starlink

Musk vs Ambani: $10 Billion Rivalry to Starlink in India

The Battle for India's Internet Market

Elon Musk is fighting for entry into one of the world's biggest internet markets, against the billionaire whose Jio network connects more than 520 million Indians. On Friday, Musk mocked Mukesh Ambani as India's 'real boss' for keeping out Starlink, SpaceX's satellite internet service.

Inside Jio's $10 Billion Plan

Ambani's Jio plans a network of about 1,600 satellites. Industry experts put the cost at $10 billion to $15 billion. On paper, it is bigger. Jio's design targets up to 5 terabits per second of capacity over India. Starlink is approved for 600 gigabits, according to Business Standard. That is roughly eight times more.

The Road to Approval

Jio's first test flight is targeted for September 2027, with all 1,600 satellites by 2035, Angel One reported. Jio also signed a deal in March 2025 to sell Starlink kits once India approves the service. Starlink won its Indian licence in June 2025. However, it still needs Home Ministry security clearance, then airwaves from the government.

Who Is Actually Holding Starlink Back?

The government called claims of unfair treatment 'baseless and misconceived,' Business Standard reported. 'India does not allow a monopoly in any sector,' said Telecom Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia Starlink says it has already built 20 ground stations in India. Jio's first test flight is still 11 months away.