IN-SPACe Opens LVM-3 Launch Vehicle Programme

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) invited Expressions of Interest on 10 June 2026 for transfer of technology of the Indian Space Research Organisation’s Launch Vehicle Mark-3, also called LVM3. The programme allows private Indian companies to manufacture, operate and commercialise LVM3, which is India’s heaviest operational launch vehicle and is also known as Bahubali.

LVM3 in India’s Launch Vehicle System

LVM3 is a three-stage launch vehicle developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation for heavy-payload missions. The vehicle has supported Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3, and it launched 72 satellites for the OneWeb constellation in 2022 and 2023.

Technology Transfer and Eligibility

The selected private company or consortium will receive technical assistance and infrastructure support from ISRO for up to 42 months, or until it manufactures and launches two LVM3 rockets, whichever is earlier. Applicants must be privately owned Indian organisations that have operated for at least seven years, have at least five years of aerospace experience, and meet financial criteria such as an average annual turnover above ₹800 crore or a market valuation of at least ₹2,000 crore.

Space Sector Reforms and Industrial Participation

India announced space sector reforms in 2020 to expand private participation in launch services and related activities. The LVM3 programme is linked with efforts to increase launch frequency and to allow ISRO to focus on advanced missions such as Gaganyaan.

Related Launch Vehicle Technology Transfers

IN-SPACe issued a similar Expression of Interest for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle in the previous month. The technology transfer process for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle was completed in the previous year.

Important Facts for Exams

• LVM3 is India’s heaviest and most powerful operational launch vehicle.
• IN-SPACe was created to promote and authorise private participation in India’s space sector.
• Chandrayaan-3 used LVM3 for its launch in 2023.
• OneWeb is a UK-based satellite constellation that used LVM3 for 72 satellites in 2022 and 2023.