Andhra Pradesh: The Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) has launched CMS-03, also known as GSAT-7R, the country’s largest communication satellite to date, reinforcing India’s secure maritime communication network.
The satellite lifted off at 5:26 pm from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket, often dubbed the Bahubali of Indian launch vehicles.
The mission strengthens India’s independent satellite communication system and significantly enhances maritime domain awareness, particularly for the Indian Navy.
CMS-03, weighing over 4,400 kg, is designed to support secure communications and advanced strategic operations at sea. It carries several new technologies and has a mission life of 15 years.
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
The LVM3 rocket placed the satellite into the intended Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit with high accuracy. This launch marked the fifth operational flight of the LVM3 and the eighth consecutive successful mission for the vehicle. The launcher was last used during the historic Chandrayaan-3 mission in July 2023.
ISRO also carried out a successful in-orbit test of its indigenously developed cryogenic stage. Engineers additionally reignited the cryogenic engine in space for the first time during an LVM3 mission, a capability that will enable placing multiple satellites in different orbits in future launches. The rocket’s payload capacity has been enhanced by 10 percent, reflecting steady progress in India’s launch technology.
The Indian Navy welcomed the satellite as a crucial asset for secure communications at sea. CMS-03 will support real-time connectivity, maritime surveillance, and strategic operations across vast ocean regions. With this addition, India deepens its space-based support for naval missions, aligning with long-term national security goals.
Our space sector continues to make us proud!
Congratulations ISRO on the successful launch of India’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03.
Powered by our space scientists, it is commendable how our space sector has become synonymous with excellence and innovation. Their…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 2, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the achievement, saying the mission reflects the nation’s growing technological strength and the determination of its scientific community. He noted that the space sector continues to empower lives and advance national progress.
For ISRO, the mission stands as another milestone on its expanding roadmap. With heavy-lift capability maturing and indigenous systems proving their reliability, India is placing itself firmly among leading space-faring nations.
