New Delhi: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) technology transfer agreement with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) in Bengaluru on Wednesday.
The agreement was signed by HAL CEO (Bangalore Complex) Jayakrishnan S, VSSC Director A Rajarajan, NSIL Chairman M Mohan and IN-SPACe Director (Technical) Rajeev Jyoti in the presence of HAL CMD DK Sunil, ISRO Chairman V Narayanan, IN-SPACe Chairman Pawan Kumar Goenka, HAL directors and senior scientists.
The SSLV is a three-stage vehicle designed to launch satellites weighing under 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). As per the agreement, HAL will absorb the technology in the first two years, followed by a production phase of 10 years. HAL will have a non-exclusive, non-transferable licence to use the SSLV technology, which covers design, manufacturing, quality control, integration, launch operations, post-flight analysis, as well as training and support.
HAL will be responsible for mass production of SSLVs to cater to both domestic and global demand. Speaking on the development, HAL CMD DK Sunil said, “HAL will work closely with IN-SPACe, ISRO, and NSIL to absorb, indigenise, and commercialise the SSLV technology, ensuring the highest standards of quality and reliability in small satellite launch services. HAL recognises the strategic importance of SSLV in meeting the growing demand for launching small satellites for applications in communication, earth observation, navigation, and more. HAL’s efforts will not only ensure indigenous manufacturing of SSLVs but also create new opportunities for Indian MSMEs, start-ups, and the wider industrial ecosystem.”
The technology transfer allows HAL to build, own and operate the launch vehicle, aligning with its long-term plan to set up a dedicated space vertical. The move marks HAL’s transition from being primarily a component supplier to becoming a full-fledged launch service provider in the small satellite market.
BI Bureau
