GSAT-7R (CMS-03) was successfully launched aboard the LVM3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
- LVM3 is India’s heaviest operational rocket for launching heavy communication satellites and deep-space missions. It is a three-stage vehicle, comprising
- Solid Stage: Two solid strap-on boosters at first stage (use of solid propellant)
- Liquid State: One liquid core stage (liquid propellant)
- Cryogenic Stage: One cryogenic upper stage (powered by the indigenous high-thrust CE-20 cryogenic engine, loaded with cryogenic propellant)
Key Features of GSAT-7R Satellite
- It is a part of India’s advanced defence communication satellite series GSAT-7.
- 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.
- Purpose: Strengthens space-based communication, maritime domain awareness, and secure links among Navy ships, submarines, aircraft, and Maritime Operations Centres.
Significance
- Indigenous development marks India’s growing self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) in defence-space communication.
- Enhances Navy’s strategic capabilities and blue-water communication reach.
- Precision Warfare: Navigation satellites vital for missile accuracy and precision strikes.
Other Military Satellites in the GSAT-7 Series
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