In a remarkable fusion of history and technology, the Indian Navy’s INSV Kaundinya, built using a 2,000-year-old sail-making technique, has successfully completed its journey from Gujarat to Oman. The vessel’s crew remained connected to the world throughout the 18-day voyage, thanks to satellite connectivity provided by OneWeb.
Historic Vessel, Modern Connectivity
INSV Kaundinya, traditionally constructed without any communication systems, was equipped with OneWeb’s Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite network, supported by Airtel. This cutting-edge satellite technology ensured reliable, real-time communication between the ship and onshore teams, marking a milestone in combining ancient maritime heritage with 21st-century digital capabilities.
OneWeb, a global satellite internet provider and direct competitor to Elon Musk’s Starlink, has a stake held by Bharti Enterprises, which also operates Airtel in India. During the voyage, the LEO satellite connectivity allowed the crew to send live updates, maintain communication, and stay in sync with ground teams, boosting morale during challenging maritime conditions.
A Mission of Heritage and National Pride
The purpose of this historic journey was to retrace ancient maritime trade routes, highlight India’s rich seafaring legacy, and strengthen national pride. Speaking on the mission, Sajeev Sanyal, member of the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council and the chief architect of the Kaundinya project, said, “The reliable satellite connectivity provided by Airtel OneWeb was invaluable for the crew. It helped us stay connected with the onshore teams, enabling live feeds and ensuring morale remained high throughout the journey.”
OneWeb’s Impact on Real-Time Communication
The successful integration of OneWeb’s satellite network on a traditionally built vessel demonstrates how modern space-based technology can enhance historical maritime missions. Neha Idnani, Etisalat’s APAC Regional Vice President and OneWeb India board director, remarked, “We are proud to provide connectivity for this historic voyage, showcasing how satellite networks can support and transform maritime missions.”
With INSV Kaundinya, India has not only celebrated its maritime heritage but also highlighted the power of modern satellite technology to connect even the most traditionally built ships with the world in real time.
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