HAL Wins Landmark Contract To Build India's SSLVs, Targets 6-12 Launches From 2027
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ISRO will support HAL in developing first two prototypes over the next two years, after which HAL will take full responsibility for production, launches, global commercialisation.
Bengaluru-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is set to power India's small satellite launch ambitions, as it secured landmark contract to build, launch and market India's indigenous Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).
Under the agreement executed with ISRO, IN-SPACe, and NSIL, HAL will aim to manufacture at least 6-12 rockets every year from 2027, beginning with the production of two prototypes in the next two years. Designed by ISRO, the compact launcher is optimised to carry payloads of upto 500 kgs – especially mini, micro and nano-satellites – into 400-500 kms low earth orbit. ISRO has already completed three developmental flights for SSLV.
These rockets are low-cost, require minimal infrastructure and offer rapid turnaround time – making them ideal for on-demand launches from global customers.
'This is one of the most comprehensive and complex technology transfers ever undertaken by ISRO," said Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe on Friday. 'HAL emerged as the highest bidder in a rigorous two-stage selection process that began with nine applicants and narrowed down to three shortlisted bidders. ISRO will work closely on the development of the first two prototypes in the next two years, after which HAL will independently handle the end-to-end manufacturing, launch and global marketing, and commercialisation of SSLVs," he added.
TARGET 6-12 SSLV LAUNCHES EVERY YEAR
The three technically-qualified bidders shortlisted were Alpha Design Technologies Ltd, Bengaluru (leading a consortium with Agnikul Cosmos & Walchand Industries Ltd.), Bharat Dynamics Ltd., Hyderabad (leading a consortium with Skyroot Aerospace, Keltron & BHEL); and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., Bengaluru (applying independently, not as part of a consortium).
'This is a moment of great pride for us, and it comes with a deep sense of responsibility. We're confident of steering a cohesive ecosystem that enables more small satellite launches from India's ports," said Dr DK Sunil, Chairman & Managing Director (CMD), HAL. The bid payment for Rs 511 crores will be done in a phased-manner over the next two years.
It also marks the first instance of a space agency transferring complete launch vehicle technology to a company. HAL will undergo rigorous handholding and training under ISRO at both ISRO's and the entity's facilities.
GROWING MARKET FOR SMALL SATELLITE LAUNCHES
As the global market for smaller satellites continues to grow, India is positioning itself to become a leading hub for small satellite launches. The strategy is to make these launches highly cost-effective and appealing to the international players.
'SSLV's are especially designed to meet the growing demand for quick small satellite launches. The satellites are getting miniaturised and more constellations are being launched. This collaboration marks a significant step towards strengthening India's commercial satellite launch capabilities and more specifically in enabling Indian industry in realising this SSLV," said Radhakrishnan Durairaj, CMD, NSIL.
Notably, HAL is already a key partner of ISRO in the indigenous production of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles (PSLV), as well as manufacturing parts of satellites. With the latest contract it has further cemented its position in India's expanding space programme, moving into a more commercial and independent role.
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