India’s space sector marked its 100th technology transfer agreement on Wednesday, enabling Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to independently produce Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs).
The agreement, facilitated by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), was signed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), IN-SPACe, and HAL.
Under the deal, ISRO will transfer SSLV know-how to HAL over a period of 24 months, providing training and technical support. “During this period, ISRO will guide HAL in acquiring SSLV technology—from commercial processes to technology integration—culminating in the accomplishment of two missions under the agreement,” an official statement said.
The initiative is expected to boost India’s capabilities in space technology and commercial launches, helping meet the growing demand in the global small-satellite market.
Dr. V. Narayanan, Secretary, Department of Space and Chairman, ISRO, said, “With India’s liberalisation of the commercial space sector, opportunities are growing. ISRO has a dynamic technology transfer mechanism to realise shared goals. We will guide HAL on the preparedness-to-flight aspects of SSLV, defining the next phase of deep-tech collaboration in India’s space sector.”
IN-SPACe Chairman Pawan Goenka described the partnership as a key step in strengthening India’s industrial ecosystem in the space sector.
Dr. D.K. Sunil, CMD, HAL, said the company will leverage its engineering and manufacturing capabilities to build SSLVs, train the workforce, and establish a self-reliant, cost-competitive business ecosystem catering to both domestic and global customers.
-IANS