In a significant development for India’s commercial space sector, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has successfully secured the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) technology transfer contract from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL). 

HAL emerged as the winning bidder among three shortlisted companies, securing the contract with a bid of ₹511 crores. The transition to HAL marks a significant technology transfer in India’s space industry. 

Pawan Goenka, chairman of IN-SPACe, highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating, “As India looks at realising the $44 billion space economy earmarked for 2033, it is imperative to enable a robust public-private-partnership model.”

This agreement will allow HAL to build, operate, and commercialise SSLV launches independently. It will also help India establish itself as a global hub for small satellite launches. The rigorous selection process included an extensive evaluation of technical and financial capabilities. 

HAL was evaluated alongside other contenders such as Alpha Design Technologies, leading a consortium with Agnikul Cosmos and Walchand Industries, and Bharat Dynamics, leading a consortium with Skyroot Aerospace, Keltron and BHEL. 

The technology transfer will be executed over a period of two years, during which HAL will develop two SSLVs under the guidance and mentorship of ISRO. The contract will see HAL adhering strictly to ISRO’s designs, and it will operate according to ISRO’s vendor specifications during this phase. 

Even Radhakrishnan Durairaj, CMD at NSIL, who was present at the announcement, expressed this step towards strengthening India’s commercial satellite launch capabilities. Winning the bid, DK Sunil, chairman and MD at HAL, said, “We’re confident of steering a cohesive ecosystem that enables more small satellite launches from India’s ports.”

The agreement also includes comprehensive training programs for HAL personnel, both at HAL’s and ISRO’s facilities. This training will ensure that HAL is equipped to execute future SSLV launches independently. The first SSLV launch is scheduled for October this year, and with this, India is expected to see a rise in the demand for on-demand small satellite launches.

In line with the transfer agreement’s objectives, HAL is set to create a large manufacturing cluster in Tamil Nadu, aiming to produce between six to 12 SSLVs annually. This new initiative will contribute significantly to the growth of India’s commercial space economy. In the coming years, HAL’s capability to independently manage SSLV launches will help India capitalise on the burgeoning global demand for small satellite launches.

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