ISRO successfully launches its 4.4-tonne heaviest communication satellite
Sriharikota: India’s space agency ISRO on Saturday successfully launched its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03 (GSAT-7R), at 5:26 PM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The powerful satellite was carried into orbit aboard the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-M5), India’s most advanced and heaviest operational rocket.
Experience #LVM3M5’s mission milestones. Watch the liftoff video and the onboard camera video capturing its ascent from launch to orbit. pic.twitter.com/1jp2G9TyYV
— ISRO (@isro) November 2, 2025
The launch marks a major milestone for India’s defence and communication capabilities, as CMS-03 is designed to deliver multi-band connectivity across the Indian landmass and surrounding oceanic regions.
What a moment! #LVM3M5 lifts off with #CMS03, marking another milestone in India’s space journey. Relive the liftoff highlights pic.twitter.com/HOPEvYYljK
— ISRO (@isro) November 2, 2025
A Giant Leap for Strategic Communication
CMS-03, also known as GSAT-7R, is a state-of-the-art military communication satellite equipped with transponders that enable secure voice, data, and video links across C, Extended C, and Ku bands. The satellite is expected to significantly enhance naval communication networks, providing seamless connectivity even in distant maritime zones.
Beyond military use, the satellite’s high-capacity bandwidth will also support civilian operations — improving digital access in remote and border regions, thereby strengthening India’s overall communication infrastructure.
LVM3: The Powerhouse Behind the Launch
The LVM3, often dubbed India’s “Bahubali” rocket, can lift payloads of up to 4,000 kilograms into orbit. It has previously powered landmark missions like Chandrayaan-3, which made India the first country to land successfully near the Moon’s south pole. The LVM3-M5 flight marks the rocket’s fifth operational mission, further cementing its reliability and versatility.
Countdown and Precision Execution
The 24-hour countdown for the mission began on Friday evening, with ISRO scientists conducting meticulous checks and system verifications at Sriharikota’s launch control centre. The liftoff from the first launch pad went as planned, with the rocket’s trajectory and performance meeting mission expectations.
Strengthening India’s Space and Defence Prowess
With CMS-03’s successful deployment, ISRO continues to play a pivotal role in advancing India’s strategic, digital, and space communication capabilities. The mission not only boosts naval and defence readiness but also underlines India’s growing self-reliance in cutting-edge space technology — reinforcing the nation’s march toward Atmanirbhar Bharat.
