Key Highlights

• BSNL has launched a new satellite phone in India priced at Rs. 1,34,166.
• The handset uses Inmarsat satellite connectivity for voice calls and SMS.
• It is designed for remote regions without conventional mobile network coverage.
• The phone includes SOS emergency support, a rugged build, and a long-lasting battery.

BSNL has launched a new Satellite Phone in India, expanding access to communication in areas where traditional mobile networks are unavailable. Priced at Rs. 1,34,166, the handset uses Inmarsat satellite connectivity to support voice calls and SMS, making it suitable for defense personnel, emergency responders, maritime operations, and users working in remote locations.

The launch strengthens BSNL’s satellite communication portfolio as demand grows for reliable connectivity beyond the reach of cellular networks.

BSNL Satellite Phone price in India and availability

The BSNL Satellite Phone is priced at Rs. 1,34,166, inclusive of all taxes.

The state-owned telecom operator announced the launch through its official X account. Customers interested in purchasing the device can visit their nearest BSNL office or contact the company’s dedicated helpline for additional details.

While the handset is now available for purchase, users must complete the customer verification process required for satellite phone services before activation.

What does the BSNL Satellite Phone offer?

The biggest highlight of the BSNL Satellite Phone is its ability to stay connected even when conventional mobile networks are unavailable.

Instead of relying on terrestrial telecom towers, the device uses Inmarsat’s satellite network, enabling users to make voice calls and send SMS messages from remote locations.

BSNL says the phone is designed for sectors where uninterrupted communication is critical. These include defense operations, maritime services, disaster management, mining, remote industrial sites, and adventure travel.

The handset also features crystal-clear voice calling, an SOS emergency support function, a rugged design, and a long-lasting battery built to withstand challenging environments.

Why does satellite connectivity matter?

Satellite phones provide communication in places where mobile towers either do not exist or have stopped functioning due to natural disasters or difficult terrain.

Unlike conventional smartphones, satellite phones connect directly to satellites orbiting the Earth. This allows users to remain connected in mountains, deserts, forests, offshore locations, and disaster-hit regions.

For emergency responders and government agencies, satellite communication often becomes the only reliable option during floods, earthquakes, cyclones, or network outages.

The addition of an SOS feature further enhances the handset’s usefulness by allowing users to quickly seek emergency assistance when required.

Existing BSNL satellite services continue

Although the handset has now been officially introduced, BSNL has been offering Global Satellite Phone Service to government agencies, enterprises, and the general public since January 1, 2018.

According to PTI, all satellite phone users must complete identity verification similar to mobile connections. They also need to specify the intended location, duration, and purpose of using the satellite service.

The report also notes that communications carried through BSNL’s satellite network are encrypted, adding an extra layer of security.

Satellite service plans and tariffs

BSNL continues to offer dedicated prepaid and postpaid satellite communication plans for both government and commercial users.

According to previously reported tariff details, postpaid plans are available at Rs. 3,500, Rs. 5,835, and Rs. 11,670 per month.

For prepaid users, government customers can access plans starting at Rs. 3,500 per month, while commercial customers can opt for plans beginning at Rs. 5,835 monthly.

The operator also provides prepaid top-up vouchers ranging from Rs. 200 to Rs. 10,000, depending on usage requirements.

Who should consider the BSNL Satellite Phone?

The BSNL Satellite Phone is not aimed at everyday smartphone users. Instead, it targets professionals and organizations operating in regions where mobile coverage remains unreliable or unavailable.

Defense personnel, rescue teams, shipping companies, mining firms, researchers, adventure travelers, and businesses working in remote areas stand to benefit the most from satellite connectivity.

With its rugged build, satellite-based calling, SMS support, and emergency SOS functionality, the handset is designed to prioritize reliable communication over advanced smartphone features.

As India expands its satellite communication ecosystem, the launch of the BSNL Satellite Phone offers another option for users who require dependable connectivity beyond traditional telecom networks.