India – Restrictions on Satellite Phones and Satellite Communication Equipment Vessel operators should exercise particular care when vessels enter, call at or transit through Indian waters. The carriage, use or incorrect declaration of prohibited satellite communication equipment may result in detention, fines and investigation by the Indian authorities. The carriage of unauthorised satellite communication devices including Thuraya devices and personal satellite phones can lead to vessel detention, severe fines and official investigation under Indian regulations. Local correspondents confirm that these strict prohibitions apply throughout Indian waters, extending up to 200 nautical miles from the coast. The relevant requirements are set out in Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Mumbai, Order No. 02 of 2026, dated 11 March 2026. The Order addresses the use, declaration, authorisation and reporting of satellite communication equipment by vessels and seafarers in Indian coastal waters. Background DGS Order No. 02 of 2026 builds on earlier Indian requirements. Iridium-based satellite communication equipment is permitted only for distress and safety communications under the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), subject to applicable conditions. Thuraya satellite equipment remains prohibited in Indian waters. The Order also recognises limited exceptions. Vessels participating in the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Voluntary Observing Ship (VOS) Scheme may transmit meteorological and safety-related data using approved Iridium GMDSS equipment. Automatic Weather Stations under Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS) Chapter V, Regulation 5, may also be permitted where they are standalone and non-portable, transmit only binary meteorological data and cannot be used for voice or personal communications. Current concern for Members The current matter highlights that enforcement action may arise not only from deliberate use of a prohibited device, but