Context: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the CMS-03 communication satellite aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota. The mission strengthens India’s strategic naval communication capability across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
About CMS-03 (GSAT-7R)
CMS-03, also referred to as GSAT-7R, is a dedicated multi-band military communication satellite designed for the Indian Navy. It provides secure, encrypted, high-bandwidth, real-time communication between naval ships, submarines, maritime aircraft, and land-based command centres.
It will replace the ageing GSAT-7 (Rukmini) launched in 2013, ensuring continuity and upgradation of maritime network systems under India’s naval digital communication strategy.
Strategic Importance
- Enhances Maritime Domain Awareness: Supports naval operations, surveillance, anti-submarine missions, and fleet coordination.
- Secure Naval Communication Layer: Ensures communication remains protected from interception and cyber threats.
- Strengthens Blue-Water Naval Capabilities: Enables the Navy to operate effectively beyond the Indian coastline, supporting India’s vision of security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.
- Force Multiplier for Jointness: Can be integrated with communication systems of the Army and Air Force for tri-service operational synergy, aligning with Theatre Command goals.
Launch Vehicle: LVM3-M5
The mission used Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3-M5), popularly known as “Bahubali” due to its heavy-lift capability and reliability.
Key Features of LVM3:
| Component | Type | Function |
|---|---|---|
| First Stage | Solid Booster (S200) | Provides initial thrust for liftoff |
| Second Stage | Liquid Core Stage (L110) | Sustains powered ascent |
| Third Stage | Cryogenic Upper Stage (C25) | Places the spacecraft accurately in orbit |
- Lift Capability: Up to 4 tonnes to Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO)
- Success Rate: 100% in operational heavy-lift missions
- Significance: It also launched Chandrayaan-3 and Gaganyaan test missions, showcasing ISRO’s mastery in strategic and scientific payload launches.
Way Forward
CMS-03 reinforces India’s Aatmanirbhar (indigenous) capabilities in defence satellite systems. It aligns with long-term goals of:
- Net Security Provider role in IOR
- Space-based naval surveillance
- Expansion of India’s military satellite constellation