Airtel Becomes Lifeline for Indian Army in Sri Lanka, Brings High-Speed Internet to Flood-Hit Areas

In a remarkable display of technology aiding humanitarian efforts, Bharti Airtel, in partnership with Utlisat OneWeb, has emerged as a key support for the Indian Army during flood relief operations in Sri Lanka. The Indian Army is currently assisting communities affected by Cyclone Dithwah, which has caused widespread flooding and displaced thousands. Airtel’s satellite internet has enabled seamless communication for the army even in areas where terrestrial networks have collapsed.

The Indian Army, under Operation Sagar Bandhu, has set up field hospitals and deployed medical teams to provide urgent care. However, flood damage had disrupted conventional network infrastructure, posing serious challenges to communication. Leveraging low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, Airtel and OneWeb are providing high-speed internet, allowing teams to coordinate effectively and continue relief efforts without interruption.

According to reports from Telecom Talk, the satellite connectivity has been crucial for medical operations. Army doctors and field medical teams can now consult specialist doctors in real-time via telemedicine, ensuring timely treatment and emergency response. With roads and bridges destroyed in several areas, terrestrial networks were unreliable, making satellite internet a vital tool for maintaining contact, delivering aid, and transporting patients safely.

This technology, while currently expensive for general consumers, has proven indispensable during crises. Just as it is assisting Sri Lanka, it holds potential for India as well, especially in remote areas or during natural disasters. Airtel and OneWeb’s partnership strengthens connectivity in India and neighboring regions, ensuring that essential communication remains uninterrupted when it matters most.

Neha Idnani, Regional Vice President for Asia-Pacific at OneWeb, emphasized, “Communication is critical during disasters. Together with Airtel, we are providing secure and reliable connectivity to the Indian Army, enabling them to save lives and maintain essential services during crises.”

Looking ahead, OneWeb’s commercial satellite services are expected to launch in India in 2026. The government is currently deliberating on spectrum allocation methods, balancing administrative distribution versus auction demands by telecom companies. Once operational, LEO satellite internet will bring high-speed connectivity even to India’s most remote regions, transforming disaster response and rural communication.