Bengaluru
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has secured a ₹511 crore Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to build, own, and commercially operate Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs). The deal marks a significant step towards the privatization and commercialization of India’s space launch capabilities.
The announcement was made by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) on Friday, which revealed HAL as the winning bidder among three shortlisted contenders. Under the agreement, HAL will manufacture at least two SSLV rockets within the first two years, with complete support and technical guidance from ISRO.
SSLVs are three-stage launch vehicles designed to deploy payloads of up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). They are aimed at meeting the growing global demand for small satellite launches, a segment that has seen rapid expansion in recent years.
IN-SPACe Chairman Dr. Pawan Goenka emphasized that this project will serve as a foundational model for future industry-led rocket manufacturing in India. “HAL will receive full handholding from ISRO initially, after which they will independently carry forward SSLV production and launches,” he noted.
The initiative is aligned with India’s broader strategy to strengthen private sector participation in the space sector and reduce dependency on state-run operations. It also reflects ISRO’s continued effort to focus on more complex missions while delegating routine launches to commercial players. This partnership is expected to enhance India’s competitiveness in the small satellite launch market globally.