ISRO’s ‘Bahubali’ Rocket to Launch Navy’s Heaviest Satellite CMS-03
India’s space agency ISRO is set to launch the Indian Navy’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03 (GSAT 7R), aboard its powerful LVM3-M5 ‘Bahubali’ rocket on Sunday evening from Sriharikota.
Key Launch Details
- Launch Time: 5:26 PM IST
- Livestream Start: 4:56 PM on ISRO’s YouTube channel
- Launch Site: Second launchpad, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
- Satellite Weight: 4,100 kg – India’s heaviest communication satellite
Rocket Capabilities and Mission Significance
The 43.5-meter LVM3 rocket, featuring two S200 solid rocket strap-ons, has a proven track record including the successful Chandrayaan-3 Moon mission. Nicknamed ‘Bahubali’ for its heavy-lift capacity, this launch marks another milestone in India’s space capabilities.
The CMS-03 satellite, specifically developed for the Indian Navy, will significantly enhance space-based naval communications and maritime security capabilities. According to the defence ministry, the satellite features indigenous state-of-the-art components designed to meet the Navy’s operational requirements.
“Its payload includes transponders capable of supporting voice, data, and video links over multiple communication bands. This satellite will significantly enhance connectivity with high-capacity bandwidth, enabling seamless and secure communication links between ships, aircraft, submarines, and Maritime Operations Centres of the Indian Navy,” the defence ministry stated.
The satellite will be placed in a sub-Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) of 29,970 km x 170 km, providing comprehensive coverage over India and its naval borders, strengthening the country’s maritime surveillance and communication infrastructure.
