The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is poised to launch the Indian Navy”s most advanced communication satellite, the GSAT-7R (CMS-03), today, November 2, 2025. This significant event will take place at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The satellite, weighing 4,410 kg, is set to be the heaviest payload ever launched from Indian soil into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) and will be propelled by the LVM3-M5 rocket, renowned for its heavy-lift capabilities.
Scheduled for liftoff at 5:26 PM, the LVM3-M5 rocket, also referred to as “Bahubali,” is a three-stage launch vehicle comprising two solid motor strap-ons (S200), a liquid propellant core stage (L110), and a cryogenic stage (C25). This powerful configuration ensures that ISRO can independently launch heavier communication satellites weighing up to 4,000 kg into GTO.
The GSAT-7R (CMS-03) satellite will enhance the Navy”s space-based communication framework and significantly improve maritime surveillance capabilities across the Indian Ocean Region. This launch marks the fifth operational flight of the LVM3 vehicle, which is officially designated as the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mk III.
The launch will be available for live streaming on ISRO”s official YouTube channel, allowing audiences to witness the event in real time. Additionally, the state-run news channel DD National will broadcast the launch for television viewers.
This mission highlights ISRO”s growing capabilities in deploying advanced communication satellites domestically. The LVM3 rocket has previously been utilized for critical missions, including the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 near the lunar South Pole in 2023. The ongoing development of India”s heavy-lift capabilities is pivotal for the nation”s aspirations in space exploration and satellite deployment.
