News Brief
India Moves Closer To SSLV Privatisation As Three Finalists, Including Adani-Backed Firm, Compete For Production Rights: Report
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A successful third and final developmental launch of the SSLV (File Photo) (Photo: ISRO/X)
Adani Group-backed firm has emerged as a finalist, alongside two government-linked companies for the private production of India's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), news agency Reuters reported citing three sources familiar with the matter.
Developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), the SSLV is an affordable launch vehicle capable of placing satellites weighing up to 500 kg into low-Earth orbit (LEO), a highly competitive segment in the satellite launch industry.
Following the SSLV’s successful debut launch in 2023, the government initiated efforts to shift its production and technology to private industry.
This initiative is a key aspect of India’s broader strategy to strengthen its commercial space sector and increase its footprint in the rapidly growing global satellite launch market, which is currently led by private firms like SpaceX.
Nearly 20 firms initially showed interest in bidding for the SSLV contract, marking the first instance of privatisation in India's space sector under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's policy to enhance private participation.
The final three contenders include Alpha Design Technologies, in which Adani Defence Systems and Technologies owns a stake, along with state-owned Bharat Dynamics Limited and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
In addition to financial strength, bidders will reportedly have to showcase their capability to manufacture, sustain, and sell the SSLV.
According to projections by research firm Mordor Intelligence, the global satellite launch vehicle market is expected to surge from $5.6 billion in 2025 to $113 billion by 2030, with LEO launches leading the sector’s growth.
India currently holds a mere 2 per cent share of the global space economy, but the Modi government plans to expand this to fivefold to $44 billion by 2030.
As per India's space regulatory guidelines, companies bidding for the SSLV contract must be financially stable, with the lead partner having a minimum of five years of manufacturing experience and an annual revenue of at least 400 crore rupees ($50 million).
