HAL to build and launch SSLV as ISRO hands over full tech stack

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will transfer the technology to manufacture the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) to Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).

HAL emerged as the winning bidder among three shortlisted contenders to receive the technology, said the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), the agency that facilitated the bidding process.

“In this milestone, India’s national ambition takes priority. We look forward to working closely under ISRO and IN-SPACe’s guidance to progress in phases and realise the end objectives. We are confident of steering a cohesive ecosystem that enables more small satellite launches from India’s ports,” said D.K. Sunil, Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) of HAL.

The three technically qualified bidders shortlisted by IN-SPACe were: Alpha Design Technologies Ltd., Bengaluru (leading a consortium with Agnikul Cosmos and Walchand Industries Ltd.); Bharat Dynamics Ltd., Hyderabad (leading a consortium with Skyroot Aerospace, Keltron and BHEL); and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd., Bengaluru (applying independently, not as part of a consortium).

A thorough evaluation process was followed, assessing various levels of technological and financial readiness. The process, which continued for several months, culminated in the financial bid evaluation, where HAL emerged as the highest bidder to acquire and operationalise SSLV technology, IN-SPACe said in a statement.

“As India looks to realise the $44 billion space economy earmarked for 2033, it is imperative to enable a robust public–private partnership model. The SSLV technology transfer marks a pivotal moment in India’s transformative commercial space segment, as this is one of the first instances of a space agency transferring complete launch vehicle technology to a company. Under this technology transfer agreement, HAL will have the capability to independently build, own, and commercialise SSLV launches,” said Pawan Goenka, Chairman, IN-SPACe.

The Technology Transfer Agreement will be signed among HAL, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), ISRO, and IN-SPACe. The agreement includes extensive training and handholding of HAL personnel by ISRO teams, both at ISRO and HAL facilities, for the realisation and launch of two SSLVs over the next two years.

“The launch vehicle system, being multidisciplinary in nature, will require the winning entity – HAL – to undergo rigorous handholding and training under ISRO at both ISRO and HAL facilities. This is aimed at realising the projected launch of two SSLVs from an Indian launch port. We aim to complete this entire process within two years from the date of signing the Technology Transfer Agreement,” said Rajeev Jyoti, Director, Technical Directorate, IN-SPACe.