ISRO launches CMS-03, India’s heaviest communication satellite successfully

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the country’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, on Sunday using the domestically developed LVM3-M5 rocket, also referred to as ‘Bahubali’. The launch took place at 5:26 pm from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, and the satellite was later placed into its intended orbit.

CMS-03, which weighs around 4,400 kg, is the largest communication satellite to be launched from Indian soil. The satellite is designed to provide multi-band communication services across a vast oceanic region that includes the Indian mainland. With an expected mission life of at least 15 years, CMS-03 is set to significantly enhance India's telecommunications infrastructure.

ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan highlighted that the satellite showcases several advanced technologies and is a strong example of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Indian Navy officials stated that CMS-03 would provide robust telecommunication coverage over the Indian Ocean Region, thereby boosting space-based maritime communications and surveillance.

Lt Gen Anil K. Bhatt (retd), Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA), said the satellite will be a game changer for India’s maritime security and national defence. Equipped with advanced encryption and high-capacity transponders, CMS-03 will enhance secure communication and improve network-based operations for the armed forces.

The LVM3-M5 rocket, built entirely with indigenous technology including the C25 cryogenic stage, has a successful launch history since its first developmental flight in 2014. The successful launch of CMS-03 marks another milestone in India’s rapidly advancing space program.a