ISRO Launches CMS-03 for Indian Navy Using LVM-3

Nov 3, 2025 - The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved another major milestone by successfully launching the CMS-03 (GSAT-R) communication satellite for the Indian Navy aboard the powerful LVM-3 rocket, also touted as Bahubali. This marks the first time ISRO has placed a satellite weighing over four tons (4410 kg) into Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) using an Indian launcher.

This was the fifth operational flight for the LMV3-M5. The previous mission of LVM3 launched the Chandrayaan-3 mission making India the first country to land successfully near the lunar south pole.

The mission lifted off from the second launch pad of the Satish Dhawan Space Station in Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota on Sunday, November 2, at 5:26 pm, and within approximately 16 minutes, the satellite was precisely injected into its intended orbit. Contact with the satellite has been established and orbit-raising operations are underway.

Previously, ISRO depended on France-based Arianespace for launching heavier satellites, costing India significantly. With this success, India has become self-reliant in launching heavy communication satellites.

ISRO Chairman Dr S Somanath called this achievement a major step toward strengthening India's space capability and strategic autonomy.

Satellite Benefits

• India’s most advanced naval communication satellite will provide an extended coverage in the Indian Ocean Region for the Navy.
• Help boost the Navy’s space-based communication and maritime awareness capabilities.
• Said to be a “shiny example of Atmanirbhar Bharat”, the satellite is expected to boost telecommunication and broadband services and enhance connectivity in remote and inaccessible regions
• With an operational life of 15 years, the satellite will provide secure and extended coverage