Bengaluru: In a major boost to India’s space ambitions and commercial space sector, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has signed a pivotal technology transfer agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) for the commercialization of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) technology.
The agreement, signed on September 10, formalizes HAL’s role in mass-producing the SSLV, an advanced three-stage, all-solid propulsion launch vehicle designed to deploy satellites weighing up to 500 kilograms into Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Developed by ISRO, the SSLV is tailored for rapid, on-demand satellite launches, requiring minimal infrastructure and capable of quick turnaround times, making it especially suited to meet the growing global demand for small satellite launches.
A technology transfer agreement was signed today (September 10, 2025) between NewSpace India Limited, ISRO, IN-SPACe & Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the transfer of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) technology.
The SSLV was developed by ISRO as a quick… pic.twitter.com/JWdMJFIotx— ISRO (@isro) September 10, 2025
The SSLV can be launched from ISRO’s established spaceport in Sriharikota for inclined orbits and will soon also operate from the upcoming launch facility at Kulasekarapattinam, which is strategically positioned for polar orbit launches.
Under the terms of the agreement, HAL will absorb the complete SSLV technology over the next two years and will then manufacture and market the launch vehicles for a period of 10 years. The technology license includes design, manufacturing processes, integration, launch support, and post-launch analysis, ensuring HAL’s capacity to independently manage SSLV production and operations.
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan described the deal as a “significant milestone in India’s space sector reforms,” highlighting its role in enabling the private sector’s deeper involvement in space technology. The agreement also marks IN-SPACe’s 100th technology transfer, reflecting a growing collaboration between government and private industry in space exploration.
Industry experts believe that this move positions India strongly in the expanding global space economy, which is expected to grow from around $14 billion in 2023 to over $44 billion by 2032. The SSLV is anticipated to serve both domestic needs and a large international market for cost-effective, fast, and flexible satellite launch services.
This technology transfer aligns with the government’s broader vision of turning India into a global hub for space technology, innovation, and industry collaboration. As commercial interest in small satellite launches continues to surge, this agreement is expected to significantly strengthen the country’s space ecosystem and boost its contribution to the global space economy.
