Bengaluru: In a landmark step towards strengthening India’s small satellite launch capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) recently signed a Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) Technology Transfer Agreement with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL).
The agreement, signed at Bengaluru, marks a significant milestone in India’s quest to enhance indigenous capabilities in the rapidly growing global small satellite launch market.
The signing ceremony witnessed the presence of Dr. D. K. Sunil, CMD, HAL, Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO, Dr. Pawan Kumar Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe, HAL Directors, senior ISRO scientists, and leaders from NSIL and IN-SPACe.
The SSLV is a compact, three-stage vehicle capable of placing satellites weighing up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Under the agreement, HAL will absorb SSLV technology over the next two years, followed by a 10-year production phase.
The license grants HAL access to the complete suite of technical documentation and expertise covering design, manufacturing, integration, quality control, launch operations, post-flight analysis, training, and support.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. D. K. Sunil said: “HAL will work closely with ISRO, NSIL, and IN-SPACe to absorb, indigenise, and commercialise the SSLV technology, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability in small satellite launch services. We see SSLV as a strategic asset that will meet growing demands in communication, navigation, and earth observation, while also fostering opportunities for Indian MSMEs, start-ups, and the broader aerospace ecosystem.”
Through this transfer, HAL gains the autonomy to build, own, and operate SSLVs, a move aligned with its strategy to establish a dedicated space vertical.
This transition elevates HAL from a trusted component supplier to a full-fledged launch service provider, positioning it as a key player in the booming global small satellite industry.
The collaboration underscores India’s larger vision of building a robust, competitive, and commercially viable space sector while driving self-reliance and industrial growth.
With HAL at the helm of SSLV production, India is set to expand its footprint in the affordable and flexible launch services segment, catering to both domestic and international customers.
