India launched GSAT-7R satellite to enhance naval communication, maritime surveillance, and national security, strengthening space-based defense capabilities and strategic maritime interests.

Why in the News?

GSAT-7R (CMS-03) Satellite was successfully launched aboard the LVM3 (India's heaviest operational rocket) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.

About GSAT-7R (CMS-03) Satellite Communication

It is a part of India's advanced defence satellite communication series GSAT-7.
- Satellite Communication refers to any communication link that involves the use of an artificial satellite in its propagation path.
- It is a form of wireless communication where satellites serve as relay stations in space, enabling the transfer of data over vast distances.
Weight: ~4,400 kg.
Orbit: Launched into the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO), it will eventually settle into Geostationary Orbit (35,786 kilometers above Earth).
Coverage: Provides multi-band telecommunication services across the Indian Ocean Region and Indian landmass up to 2,000 kms from India's coastline.
Multiple Communication channels: The satellite operates on multiple frequency bands, which include UHF, S, C, and Ku. The system enables the transmission of voice, video and data.
Lifespan: 15 years and will replace the multi-band communication satellite GSAT-7/INSAT-4F Rukmini.
Purpose: Strengthens space-based communication, maritime domain awareness, and secure links among Navy ships, submarines, aircraft, and Maritime Operations Centres.

Other Satellites in the GSAT-7 Series

For Navy:
- GSAT-7 (Rukmini): Operational since 2013; provides maritime communication and surveillance.
- It is India's first officially dedicated military satellite.
- Rukmini satellite reportedly picked up the movement of China's Yuan-class conventional diesel-electric submarines during the Doklam Crisis.
- It has reduced the navy's dependence on foreign satellites like Inmarsat (British) to communicate with Indian ship
For Air Force:
- GSAT-7A (Angry Bird): Launched in 2018; strengthens network-centric operations and data link connectivity.
  - It helps the IAF connect various platforms like aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, Airborne early warning and control (AWACS) aircraft, missile units and radars.
- GSAT-7C: To be developed and includes ground hubs for real-time, secure communication.
For Army:
- GSAT-7B: To be developed to enhance surveillance and communication in border areas.

Conclusion

Satellite communication has become an indispensable pillar of India's defence preparedness, enabling secure connectivity, real-time surveillance and seamless coordination across land, air and sea. As threats grow more complex and space becomes a critical warfighting domain, strengthening SATCOM capabilities is essential for safeguarding national security and ensuring strategic superiority.