Bengaluru: The Indian government is finalizing the privatisation of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), with three companies- Adani Group-backed Alpha Design Technologies, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) competing to take over its production, according to sources familiar with the process.
ISRO’s SSLV Privatisation Move
The SSLV, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is a low-cost rocket designed to place small satellites of up to 500 kg into low-Earth orbit (LEO). Following its first successful launch in 2023, the Indian government initiated its transfer to private industry to expand the country’s role in the global satellite launch market.
The privatisation of SSLV marks a significant shift in India’s space sector, aligning with the government’s broader push to increase private-sector participation.
Three Finalists Compete for the Contract
Out of 20 initial bidders, three consortiums have emerged as finalists:
Alpha Design Technologies (with Adani Defence Systems and Technologies as a stakeholder)
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL)
The winner will gain access to SSLV’s manufacturing processes, design expertise, and ISRO’s technical support for up to two successful launches or 24 months. The selected company is expected to pay ISRO around Rs 3 billion ($30 million) for the transfer. Industry experts believe that LEO launches will dominate the sector, with the global satellite launch vehicle market projected to grow from $5.6 billion in 2025 to $113 billion by 2030. The Indian government has set stringent eligibility criteria for bidders, requiring a track record of profitability, at least five years of manufacturing experience, and an annual revenue of Rs 4 billion ($50 million). The outcome of this bid will play a crucial role in shaping India’s private space industry, setting a precedent for future privatisations in the sector.
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