IN-SPACe LVM-3 Launch Vehicle Program

On June 10, 2026, the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3) technology transfer was sought through a call for expression of interest issued by the National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) of India. With this scheme, private Indian enterprises will be able to produce, operate and sell the LVM-3. India’s heaviest operational launch vehicle, LVM-3 is also known as “Bahubali.”

India’s Launch Vehicle System: The LVM-3

LVM-3 is a three stage launch vehicle designed by ISRO for heavier payload missions. The vehicle has supported Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 missions and launched 72 satellites for OneWeb constellation in 2022 and 2023.

Transfer of Technology and Eligibility

The chosen commercial company or partnership will be provided with technical help and infrastructure support from ISRO for a period of 42 months, or until two LVM-3 rockets are produced and launched – whichever is earlier. The applicants should be private Indian entities with minimum seven years of existence and minimum five years of experience in the aerospace sector with financial criteria such as average annual turnover of more than 800 million rupees or a market capitalisation of at least 2 billion rupees.

Space Sector Reforms and Industry Engagement

In 2020, India announced reforms in space industry to enhance private engagement in launch services and related operations. The LVM-3 programme is among the efforts to enhance launch frequency and allow ISRO to focus on sophisticated missions like Gaganyaan.

Launch Vehicle Technology Transferring

Last month, IN-SPACe floated a similar “Expression of Interest” for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Last year the technology transfer process for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) was completed.

For the exam facts

• LVM3 is India’s biggest and most powerful operational launch vehicle.
• IN-SPACe was set up to promote and ease the engagement of the private sector in the Indian space industry. Chandrayaan-3 was launched with the LVM3 in 2023.
• In 2022-2023, the UK satellite business OneWeb utilised the LVM3 to launch 72 satellites into orbit.