Indian Navy to Launch Indigenous GSAT-7R Satellite to Enhance Maritime Communications
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure | SDG 16: Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
Institutions: Ministry of Defence | Indian Navy
The Indian Navy is set to bolster its space-based communications and Indian Ocean Region (IOR) domain awareness with the launch of the indigenous GSAT‑7R (CMS-03) satellite. The satellite, developed by ISRO and weighing approximately 4,400 kg — India’s heaviest communication satellite to date — will be launched from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota.
GSAT-7R is designed to support voice, data and video links across multiple communication bands, delivering secure high-bandwidth connectivity between Navy ships, aircraft, submarines and Maritime Operations Centres. The system will provide robust coverage over the Indian Ocean Region, enhancing strategic maritime communications, real-time operations and surveillance.
This deployment is a key step toward India’s aspiration for maritime domain awareness and indigenous defence-space capability — strengthening resilience, digital infrastructure and strategic autonomy. It aligns with the nation’s overarching goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence and leveraging space as a force multiplier for the Navy.
Relevant Question for Policy Stakeholders:
How can the Ministry of Defence and Indian Navy maximise the operational benefits of GSAT-7R by ensuring integration with naval platforms, cybersecurity protocols and next-generation satellites?
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