BSNL launches satellite phone service in India: How it works

Imagine making a phone call from a remote mountain, offshore installation or disaster-hit region where mobile towers are unavailable or damaged. That is what BSNL’s satellite phone service is designed to enable.

BSNL advertised the handset on July 9 at ₹1,34,166, including taxes. The device shown appears to be Inmarsat’s IsatPhone 2, although BSNL has not formally confirmed the model name. It is a rugged satellite handset built for specialised communication rather than everyday smartphone use.

This is not an entirely new service. BSNL has offered its Global Satellite Phone Service to public and private organisations since January 2018. The latest announcement mainly highlights the handset’s price and availability.

How it works

A regular phone connects to a nearby mobile tower. A satellite phone communicates directly with a satellite after its antenna is extended. The satellite routes the signal through a ground station, allowing calls to reach another satellite phone, mobile phone or landline.

Since it does not depend on local towers, the phone can remain operational during floods, cyclones, earthquakes and other emergencies that damage telecom infrastructure. The service uses a global L-band satellite network that provides coverage across most regions outside extreme polar areas.

Built for communication, not entertainment

The handset is not designed for social media, video streaming or high-speed internet. BSNL’s service supports encrypted voice calls, SMS, voicemail, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and incoming-call alerts.

It is aimed at defence personnel, disaster-response teams, scientists, mining workers, infrastructure staff, government officials and expeditions operating in remote locations.

BSNL also promotes satellite communication for maritime operations. However, the handheld IsatPhone 2 is approved for land use. Communication aboard ships may require an approved docking system or a separate certified maritime terminal.

Key specifications

The handset has a 3,180mAh lithium-ion battery, offering up to eight hours of talk time and 160 hours of standby time. It supports charging through mains power, Micro-USB and vehicle chargers.

It can operate between minus 20°C and 55°C and tolerate humidity levels of up to 95%. Its IP65 rating provides protection against dust and water, while its shock-resistant construction suits demanding outdoor environments.

The phone includes a physical keypad, sunlight-readable scratch-resistant display, GPS tracking, electronic compass and a programmable assistance button. The emergency button can send the user’s GPS location to a selected contact.

It can also alert users to incoming calls while the antenna is folded, although the antenna must be extended before answering.

It needs open sky

The phone generally requires a clear view of the sky. Dense forests, buildings, caves, tunnels and steep mountain walls can block the signal. A user may need to move to an open area and correctly position the antenna before connecting.

Additional costs and approvals

The handset price does not include service charges. Monthly prepaid plans start at ₹3,500 for government customers and ₹5,835 for commercial customers, excluding GST. Additional calls or messages cost ₹18 for government users and ₹25 for commercial users.

The handset must be obtained, activated and used according to Department of Telecommunications verification and usage-disclosure requirements. Customers must provide details about the purpose, location and duration of use.

At ₹1.34 lakh, it remains a niche device. However, for professionals working beyond mobile-network coverage, one dependable call can be more valuable than any smartphone feature.