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New Delhi. Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is preparing to give unprecedented strength to the maritime communication capabilities of the Indian Navy. With the launch of CMS-03 (GSAT-7R) satellite from the Satish Dhawan Space Center in Sriharikota on November 2, the Navy will benefit from a revolutionary change in real-time communication, surveillance and strategic control. This will be India’s heaviest communication satellite ever, which will take the security of maritime areas to new heights.

ISRO said in a statement, “India’s LVM3 launch vehicle is going to place the CMS-03 communication satellite in orbit in its fifth flight (LVM3-M5) on November 2, 2025.” According to the space agency, CMS-03 is a multi-band communication satellite which has been designed to provide services over a wide maritime area including the Indian landmass. Weighing approximately 4,400 kg, this satellite will be the heaviest communication satellite to be launched from Indian soil into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO).

ISRO said, “Chandrayaan-3 was launched from the previous flight of LVM3, in which India became the first country to successfully land its rover near the south pole of the Moon.” The space agency said that the launch vehicle has been completely prepared and the satellite has also been attached to it. It was taken to the launch pad on 26 October for final pre-launch checks.

What is the benefit to the Navy?
CMS-03 will prove to be a boon for the Navy. This satellite will ensure real-time communication for naval operations, air defense and strategic command control. Facilities like maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, navigation and weather monitoring will strengthen the defense of India’s maritime interests. According to experts, this satellite will increase digital reach in remote areas, which will also benefit civic agencies.