Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was announced as the winner of a key bid to commercialise and manufacture ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) after technology transfer.
SSLV has had three development flights so far, paving the way for commercial adoption.
- Over the next two years, ISRO will transfer technology and mentor HAL.
- HAL must build two SSLVs end-to-end, replicating ISRO’s development process.
- Post-2027: HAL will have full autonomy to design, manufacture, and market SSLVs globally.
About SSLVs
| Feature |
Details |
| Stage |
A three-stage solid propulsion rocket |
| Target |
Small and nano satellite launches |
| Payload Capacity |
Up to 500 kg to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) |
| USP |
Quick assembly, low cost, ideal for on-demand launches, designed for rapid turnaround, minimal infrastructure and has flexibility in accommodating multiple satellites. |
Significance for India’s Space Sector
- Commercialisation of Space Tech
- Transitions ISRO from being the sole launch provider to an enabler of commercial enterprise.
- HAL becomes a full-service launch provider, unlike the PSLV consortium model, where ISRO is still the buyer.
- Boost to Atmanirbhar Bharat in Space
- Enables end-to-end indigenous launch capability for small satellites.
- Reinforces India’s goal to become a global hub for low-cost satellite launches.
- Strengthens Private Ecosystem
- Complements efforts by IN-SPACe and NSIL to promote private sector R&D, innovation, and launch opportunities.
- Enhances the space industrial cluster planned in Tamil Nadu and the upcoming Kulasekharapatnam spaceport in Tamil Nadu.
- Economic Growth
- At present, the Indian space economy is valued at approximately USD 8.4 billion, constituting a 2% share of the global space market.
- The government envisions scaling the space economy to USD 44 billion by 2033, including US $11 billion in exports amounting to 7-8% of the global share.
- Scientific Leadership
- Accelerates progress in deep space exploration, planetary science, and space technologies through missions like:
- Strengthens India’s space science and technology capabilities for the long term.
- Global Standing
- Enhances India’s role in space diplomacy and Strengthens India’s voice in global forums on space governance, sustainability, and equitable access to space resources.
- Positions India as a reliable and affordable partner in global satellite deployment, Earth observation, and disaster monitoring.
- Collaboration with global agencies (e.g. NISAR with NASA).
- Hosting launches for foreign clients and start-ups
Government Efforts to Make India a Developed Nation by 2047 in the Space Sector
- As part of the Amrit Kaal Vision 2047, the Government of India has undertaken strategic initiatives to transform India into a developed spacefaring nation by 2047.
- The Indian Space Vision 2047 outlines technological self-reliance, global leadership in space exploration, and increased private participation as core components of this long-term mission.
1. Major Space Milestones Targeted
- Launch of 1st module of Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) in 2028
- Full establishment of BAS in 2035
- Indian astronaut landing on the Moon 2040
2. Approved Flagship Missions and Programs
- Gaganyaan follow-on missions: Build upon India’s first human spaceflight program (Gaganyaan).
- BAS Module-1 (2028): Lay the foundation for a full-fledged Indian space station
- Next-Generation Launch Vehicle (NGLV): Develop a reusable, low-cost satellite launch vehicle by 2032
- Chandrayaan-4 (2027): Sample return mission; land and return from Moon to Earth
- Venus Orbiter Mission (2028): Study Venusian surface, atmosphere, and solar interactions
3. Policy & Institutional Reforms
- Space Sector Reforms (2020)
- Clear division of roles:
- ISRO: Focus on R&D and advanced missions
- NSIL: Commercial exploitation of ISRO technologies
- IN-SPACe: To promote and oversee private sector involvement in space activities, serving as a key facilitator for space startups and businesses.
- Indian Space Policy, 2023
- Enables private sector participation across the full space value chain.
- Creates a level playing field for Indian start-ups, MSMEs, and academic institutions.
- FDI Policy Amendment
- Aims to attract international capital and collaborations in high-tech space areas.
- Raised Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limits in various domains of the space sector.
- Upto 74% under Automatic route: Satellites-Manufacturing & Operation, Satellite Data Products and Ground Segment & User Segment. Beyond 74% these activities are under government route.
- Upto 49% under Automatic route: Launch Vehicles and associated systems or subsystems, Creation of Spaceports for launching and receiving Spacecraft. Beyond 49% these activities are under government route.
- Upto 100% under Automatic route: Manufacturing of components and systems/ sub-systems for satellites, ground segment and user segment.’
- Support for Start-ups and Innovation
- ₹1,000 crore Venture Capital Fund for space start-ups over five years.
- Managed under IN-SPACe.
- Aims to boost R&D, prototyping, and early-stage commercialization.
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