LEO satellite network enables real-time communication, crew safety and maritime documentation on a traditional stitched‑plank sailing vessel
Eutelsat has announced its partnership with the Indian Navy’s INSV Kaundinya team, providing OneWeb’s high‑speed Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity for one of India’s most ambitious maritime heritage expeditions. The collaboration supports Project Kaundinya, a historic voyage retracing ancient Indian maritime trade routes aboard a traditionally built stitched‑plank sailing vessel.
The initiative, unveiled on 15 January 2026, celebrates India’s seafaring legacy while showcasing the strategic relevance of modern satellite technologies in demanding maritime environments. INSV Kaundinya, constructed using ancient shipbuilding techniques, lacks conventional communication systems, making OneWeb’s LEO network the expedition’s sole connectivity lifeline.
“Reliable OneWeb connectivity has been invaluable for the crew — supporting communication, live feeds and morale during challenging stretches at sea.”
Throughout the voyage, OneWeb connectivity has enabled real‑time communication, crew welfare updates, and seamless coordination with shore-based operations. It has also powered live documentation of the journey, reinforcing the role of resilient LEO networks in mission‑critical scenarios.
Sanjeev Sanyal, Member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council and a core crew member, emphasised the significance of uninterrupted connectivity. “Throughout the voyage, having reliable satellite connectivity from Airtel OneWeb has been invaluable for the crew. It supported communication, operational coordination, live feeds — and, above all, morale during challenging periods at sea,” he said.
“Project Kaundinya reflects a rare convergence of India’s maritime heritage, national ambition and technological innovation.”
— Neha Idnani, Regional Vice President APAC, Eutelsat
Eutelsat’s Regional Vice President for APAC and OneWeb India Board Director, Neha Idnani, congratulated the INSV Kaundinya team as the vessel reached its first milestone in Muscat, Oman. “Project Kaundinya represents a rare convergence of India’s rich maritime heritage, national ambition and technological innovation. Our LEO technology is purpose-built for mission-critical environments where safety, resilience and real-time communications are essential,” she said.
The deployment underscores Eutelsat’s commitment to supporting defence, government and humanitarian missions with secure, high-performance satellite connectivity. OneWeb’s LEO network continues to expand its footprint in India, enabling reliable communication across remote, maritime and underserved areas.
