India's largest satellite launch on Sunday: GSAT-7R to boost military capabilities

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: When the 4.4-ton GSAT-7R communication satellite lifts off from Sriharikota on Sunday, it will mark India’s largest satellite launch ever.

The mission will use the LVM-3 rocket, the same vehicle that launched Chandrayaan-3. This will be the first time ISRO is launching such a heavy satellite from Indian soil. Until now, satellites weighing over four tonnes were launched from Kourou Spaceport in French Guiana using Ariane rockets of the European Space Agency.

The GSAT-7R (also known as CMS-03) has been developed to replace India’s first military communication satellite, GSAT-7, which has completed its operational life. The new satellite will mainly serve the Indian Navy and is equipped with more advanced communication systems than its predecessor. The satellite includes UHF, S, C, and Ku-band transponders, enabling high-speed, secure transmission of voice, data, and video between specific command centres.

After recent setbacks with the NVS-2 and EOS-9 launches earlier this year, ISRO has made extensive preparations to ensure the mission’s success.

India to end dependence on foreign satellites

• One of the biggest achievements of the GSAT-7R mission is that India will no longer need to depend on foreign satellites for defence communications. This will significantly strengthen national security, allowing India to cover the entire Indian subcontinent and surrounding ocean regions. The satellite has a seven-year lifespan and will also support civil services, including maritime operations and disaster management.
• It will enable real-time communication between the Navy’s command centres, aircraft carriers, warships, submarines, and aircraft. It can also be used to improve coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force, enhancing India’s overall defence communication network.