The CMS-03 satellite, weighing 4,410 kg, marks another milestone in India’s space journey, strengthening communication and maritime connectivity across the Indian Ocean Region
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on the successful launch of CMS-03, India’s heaviest communication satellite, also known as ‘Bahubali’, from Sriharikota on Sunday (November 2). In a post on X, the Prime Minister praised the mission as a symbol of India’s growing expertise in space science and innovation.
“Our space sector continues to make us proud! Congratulations ISRO on the successful launch of India’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03. Powered by our space scientists, it is commendable how our space sector has become synonymous with excellence and innovation,” Modi said. He further added that ISRO’s consistent achievements have strengthened national progress and empowered millions of lives.
A major milestone for India’s space sector
The CMS-03 satellite, weighing 4,410 kilograms, was launched aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket, the same launch vehicle that carried the Chandrayaan-3 mission. Nicknamed ‘Bahubali’ for its massive payload capability, the satellite was placed into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). According to ISRO, CMS-03 is designed to enhance multi-band communication services across the Indian landmass and surrounding oceanic regions.
Following the launch, ISRO Secretary V. Narayanan shared the news on X, calling it a proud moment for India. “Congratulations India! ISRO has successfully launched the heaviest GEO communication satellite from Indian soil. The Indian space sector is soaring high to provide valuable services to users across the region,” he wrote.
Strengthening India’s maritime communication capabilities
Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan also extended his congratulations, describing the mission as a landmark achievement under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. He highlighted that the satellite, also known as GSAT-7R, will enhance communication, connectivity, and maritime domain awareness across the Indian Ocean Region — particularly benefiting the Indian Navy.
ISRO Chairman Narayanan noted that the successful deployment of CMS-03 underscores India’s growing self-reliance and technical strength in building and launching heavy communication satellites. He recalled that the same rocket earlier propelled Chandrayaan-3, a mission that brought immense pride to the nation, and said Bahubali continues that legacy of excellence in India’s space odyssey.
