IN-SPACe Offers Full PSLV Technology Transfer

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) has offered full technology transfer of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) to Indian industry. The offer comes before the first PSLV built under an earlier private-sector contract has completed its launch, and it is linked to India’s launch vehicle industrialisation framework.

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle

The PSLV is an ISRO launch vehicle used for placing satellites into polar and sun-synchronous orbits. It is classified as a medium-lift launch vehicle and has been used for Earth observation, navigation, and scientific missions.

Private-sector contract for PSLV manufacturing

In 2022, NewSpace India Limited awarded a ₹860-crore contract to the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited-Larsen & Toubro consortium for manufacturing five PSLVs. The first rocket from this consortium was initially expected in 24 months and has taken nearly double that time.

Technology transfer framework and eligibility

IN-SPACe has stated that the PSLV transfer is intended to enable Indian industry to realise, operate, and commercialise PSLV launches in the global medium-lift satellite market. ISRO will provide infrastructural and hand-holding support for 30 months or until two PSLV vehicles are realised and launched by the selected party, whichever is earlier. The Expression of Interest is open to Indian-owned non-government entities with at least seven years of operations and five years of space or aerospace experience. Eligible entities must also have either an average turnover above ₹400 crore or a valuation exceeding ₹1,000 crore.

Related launch vehicle transfers

If taken up, the PSLV transfer will be the second ISRO launch vehicle whose technology is fully transferred to industry. The first was the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle, whose technology transfer was completed in September 2025.

Important Facts for Exams

• The PSLV is one of ISRO’s most widely used launch vehicles for polar and sun-synchronous orbit missions.
• NewSpace India Limited is the commercial arm of the Department of Space for space-related business activities.
• The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle technology transfer was completed in September 2025.
• Hindustan Aeronautics Limited became the first Indian company to receive complete launch vehicle technology from ISRO after the SSLV transfer.