ISRO Successfully Launches India’s Heaviest Communication Satellite CMS-03
CMS-03, a replacement for the GSAT-7 satellite currently used by the Indian Navy, will play a crucial role in enhancing secure naval communications and bolstering national defence systems.
New Delhi, November 3: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Sunday successfully launched India’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, marking a major milestone in the country’s space and defence capabilities.
The 4,410 kg CMS-03 satellite, launched aboard the LVM-3 (Bahubali) rocket, was successfully placed in the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). The mission, conducted from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, is a significant step in strengthening India’s communication infrastructure and maritime security.
CMS-03, a replacement for the GSAT-7 satellite currently used by the Indian Navy, will play a crucial role in enhancing secure naval communications and bolstering national defence systems. The launch also demonstrates ISRO’s growing proficiency in deploying heavy-payload satellites for strategic applications, reflecting India’s increasing technological self-reliance in the space sector.
Space Industry Lauds ISRO’s Achievement
Industry experts and space technology bodies hailed the mission as a landmark accomplishment.
“The successful launch of the CMS-03 satellite by LVM3 rocket (Bahubali) is a monumental achievement for India, powerfully demonstrating our sovereign capability in launching heavy-payload satellites for strategic applications,” said Lt Gen Anil K. Bhatt (retd.), Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA).
The satellite will significantly boost the Indian Navy’s real-time communication network, while contributing to broader applications in national security and advanced communications.
Prime Minister Congratulates ISRO
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO and the nation’s space scientists for the successful launch, calling it another proud moment in India’s technological journey.
In a post on X, the Prime Minister said:
“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 successes have furthered national progress and empowered countless lives.”
The CMS-03 launch adds to ISRO’s impressive run of achievements in 2025 and reaffirms India’s position as a global leader in cost-effective and advanced space technology — one that continues to strengthen the nation’s strategic capabilities both on Earth and beyond.
