The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is set to launch its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, today, 2 November 2025, at 5:26 PM (IST) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
This advanced satellite, developed specifically for the Indian Navy, marks a major milestone in India’s space and defence communication network. Weighing approximately 4,400 kilograms, CMS-03 becomes the heaviest communication satellite ever launched from India — a significant leap forward in ISRO’s growing capability to handle complex and high-capacity missions.
Key Features of CMS-03
- Weight: Approximately 4,400 kilograms
- Purpose: To provide secure and reliable communication services to the Indian Navy
- Technology: Equipped with advanced multi-band communication capabilities
- Launch Vehicle: LVM3-M5 rocket (popularly known as ‘Bahubali’ due to its immense power and reliability)
- Orbit Type: Geostationary orbit
Launch Details
- Launch Date: 2 November 2025
- Time: 5:26 PM (IST)
- Launch Vehicle: LVM3-M5
- Launch Site: Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota
The successful deployment of CMS-03 will significantly boost the Indian Navy’s communication systems and enhance maritime security. It is also a reflection of ISRO’s growing expertise in building large, technologically advanced satellites for defence and strategic use.
Key Highlights About CMS-03 Mission
Fifth Operational Flight of LVM3-M5
The CMS-03 will ride on the LVM3-M5 rocket, marking its fifth operational mission. ISRO’s Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3), nicknamed Bahubali, is known for its heavy-lift capabilities and reliability.
In this version, ISRO engineers have implemented structural improvements including modifications to handle a higher payload weight, an increase in engine thrust, and design optimizations to reduce overall rocket weight. These upgrades ensure better performance and fuel efficiency during launch, allowing it to carry the 4.4-tonne satellite with stability and precision.
Nationwide and Maritime Communication Coverage
The CMS-03 is designed to provide secure, high-speed, multi-band communication coverage across the entire Indian subcontinent and surrounding oceanic regions.
It will ensure uninterrupted connectivity for naval ships, submarines, aircraft, and coastal command centers. Its advanced transponders will make it possible to maintain strong communication links even in remote areas and deep-sea zones, supporting strategic and rescue operations alike.
Successor to GSAT-7
The new satellite replaces the ageing GSAT-7, which has served the Indian Navy for several years.
CMS-03 carries modernized communication payloads, enhanced frequency bands, and a stronger transmission capacity, ensuring better data handling and more reliable coverage. With this replacement, ISRO and the Navy aim to create a robust, secure, and independent communication backbone for critical defence missions.
Strengthening India’s Network-Centric Warfare
CMS-03 plays a crucial role in enhancing India’s network-centric warfare capabilities — a modern strategy where all defence units (land, air, and sea) are digitally connected for real-time information sharing.
The satellite will help the Indian Navy, Air Defence, and Strategic Command exchange mission-critical data instantly. It enables live coordination during operations and enhances situational awareness over vast maritime and terrestrial regions.
In essence, CMS-03 will act as a digital command hub in space, strengthening India’s security, surveillance, and emergency response systems.
Geostationary Orbit for 24×7 Coverage
After launch, CMS-03 will be placed in a geostationary orbit (GEO) approximately 36,000 kilometers above Earth.
This orbit allows the satellite to remain fixed over a specific area, providing continuous coverage 24 hours a day. For Defense operations that demand uninterrupted connectivity, this positioning is critical. It ensures that the Navy and other forces receive real-time data streams without delays, improving operational readiness and reliability.
A Step Toward Stronger Space and Defence Infrastructure
The CMS-03 mission showcases India’s steady progress in space technology and defence communications.
For ISRO, this marks another milestone in its journey from scientific exploration to strategic applications. For the Indian Navy, CMS-03 means greater autonomy, safer communication, and enhanced situational control across land, air, and sea.
The successful launch will reinforce India’s reputation as a leading spacefaring nation and demonstrate its ability to build large-scale satellites for complex national missions. With CMS-03, ISRO not only boosts defence strength but also continues to empower India’s vision of secure, self-reliant space communication systems.
I am a finance writer focused on IPO updates, market trends and equity research. I simplify complex IPO data into clear, accurate and reliable insights to help readers stay informed.