ISRO’s ‘Bahubali’ draws big industry interest
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to hand over the manufacturing and operation of its heavy-lift launch vehicle, LVM3, also known as Bahubali, to private sector companies. Top Indian conglomerates, including Larsen & Toubro, JSW, Adani Group, Mahindra, and others, are showing interest in partnering with ISRO to transfer technology.
These entities are planning to submit expressions of interest (EoIs) for LVM3, which can carry up to four-tonne satellites. The move aligns with ISRO's strategy to shift routine rocket manufacturing to the private sector. Global demand for space launch services is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, making this a strategic opportunity for private players.
Companies like JSW and EtherealX, Solar Industries, Bharat Forge, Inox India, and Mahindra Group are among those evaluating the opportunity. The EoI process is a preliminary stage, with formal bidding expected in October. The selected entity will have 42 months to complete the technology-transfer process, working closely with ISRO and IN-SPACe to build the necessary infrastructure for manufacturing LVM3 systems and subsystems independently.
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