The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on Sunday launched CMS-03 (GSAT-7R), the country’s heaviest communication satellite, marking an important step in strengthening India’s space and security capabilities.
The satellite was launched at 5:26 pm aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket, also known as the ‘Bahubali’ of Indian rockets, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Soon after liftoff, ISRO shared the update on the social media platform X.

“Liftoff! #LVM3M5 launches #CMS03 from SDSC SHAR, carrying India’s heaviest communication satellite to GTO,” the agency posted.

A second update confirmed the satellite had separated from the rocket successfully: “LVM3-M5/CMS-03 Mission Update: CMS-03 separated successfully. Perfect injection.”

This mission was the fifth operational flight of the LVM3 rocket, which was previously used to launch Chandrayaan-3 in July 2023.

ISRO chief Dr. V Narayanan shared how the mission marked several important achievements.

He said, “LVM3-M5 successfully injected precisely into the required orbit. This is the 8th consecutive successful launch by LVM3. CMS-03 is the heaviest satellite placed in GTO orbit. The vehicle performance was enhanced to increase its payload capacity by 10 per cent.”

He also added that the satellite has a 15-year lifespan and brings new technologies onboard.

“We accomplished this mission despite the difficult weather conditions,” he said.

He explained that the launch also included the reignition of the C20 cryogenic engine for the first time after deployment, which will allow the rocket to place satellites in multiple orbits.

The Indian Navy stated that CMS-03 will help improve communication and maritime domain awareness, which is important for operations at sea.

The Navy said the satellite weighs more than 4,400 kg and uses indigenous components designed for naval needs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO on the successful launch.

He wrote, “Our space sector continues to make us proud!”

In another message, he said, “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.”