Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) became the first Indian company to fully acquire the technology for a launch vehicle, specifically the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), through a technology transfer agreement valued at ₹511 crore.
This historic event, announced by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), represents a significant shift in India’s space sector, as it is the first time complete rocket technology has been transferred to an Indian company, allowing HAL to independently own, build, market, and launch the SSLV.
The SSLV technology transfer is a critical step in India’s ambitions to expand its space industry to include both the private and public sectors, with the goal of increasing competitiveness and innovation in the global small satellite launch market.
Previously, contracts for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) were shared by different companies, but the SSLV transfer is unique in that it gives HAL full ownership and operational autonomy after an initial two-year term of ISRO support. During these two years, HAL will produce at least two SSLV prototypes with ISRO’s full support.
Following this phase, HAL will function freely, with the option to improve the rocket design and choose its own partners or providers.
The selection procedure for this technology transfer was rigorous, with two steps. Out of nine initial bidders, six were shortlisted, and three—HAL, Alpha Design Technologies (heading a consortium), and Bharat Dynamics Ltd (also leading a consortium)—submitted techno-commercial proposals. HAL won the contract with the highest bid of ₹511 crore, surpassing its opponents.
The SSLV is a three-stage, all-solid propulsion launch vehicle with a liquid-propelled Velocity Trimming Module (VTM) as the last stage. It is intended to launch satellites weighing up to 500 kg into low Earth orbit in a timely and cost-effective manner, meeting the growing demand for small satellite launches. The SSLV may be assembled in less than a week, providing competitive turnaround time and pricing in the international market.
This breakthrough is consistent with India’s broader ambitions under the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, which seek to boost the country’s position in the global space economy and promote strong public-private partnerships. Barenya Senapati, HAL’s director of finance, highlighted that this new endeavor will increase HAL’s space portfolio while having no impact on its other operations.
Regarding accountability for rocket launches, IN-SPACe chairman Pawan Goenka stated that, according to international standards, the state bears primary duty, however the particular sharing of risk between the government and HAL will be defined in the final contract.
HAL’s acquisition of SSLV technology is a game changer for India’s space sector, allowing the business to independently produce and commercialize launch vehicles and placing India as a competitive player in the global small satellite launch market.
