1st privately built PSLV near lift-off

India's first privately built polar satellite launch vehicle (PSLV) is expected to have its maiden commercial flight before the end of the financial year, marking a giant leap in the country’s ambition to foster a private space economy.

- Shouvik Das

Three years ago, the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) contracted out the manufacture of the PSLV, which it has developed and flown for decades. A joint venture between state-run aerospace firm Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd and conglomerate Larsen & Toubro Ltd, which will build five such rockets, is now nearly ready with the first in the series.

“We've worked with Isro for a long time, and this is an opportunity for us to showcase what we can do in terms of core space products. We're handling the core hardware manufacturing part of the deal, and if all goes well, we should see multiple PSLV launches in 2026 itself,” said Amit Ramchandani, senior vice-president and head of precision engineering and systems at L&T, confirming the launch timeline.

Privatizing rocket production follows the US model where the space agency sets the specifications and the rockets are built by private entities like SpaceX, Blue Origin and Northrop Grumman. The launch of India's first such rocket could attract more space startups and set the stage for more public-private partnerships. Under the contract, the HALL&T venture has agreed to build five PSLVs for ₹860 crore.