Indian Space Research Organisation Launches Heaviest Satellite

The India — ISRO (India — ISRO) successfully launched its heaviest communication satellite, GSAT-7R (also known as GSAT-7R), weighing 4,410 kg, from the India — Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, India, on November 2, 2025. The satellite was carried by the LVM3-M5 rocket, nicknamed 'Bahubali' for its heavy-lift capabilities. This mission marks a significant milestone for India, as it is the first time India — ISRO has launched a communication satellite over 4,000 kg from Indian soil into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) using an entirely homegrown rocket. Previously, India relied on foreign companies like Arianespace and SpaceX for such heavy launches. The GSAT-7R satellite is a multi-band communication satellite designed to provide services over a wide oceanic region, including the Indian landmass, for at least 15 years. It is also an advanced military communication satellite developed for the India — Indian Navy, funded by the India — Ministry of Finance (India), aimed at enhancing network-centric warfare capabilities. The LVM3 rocket, which has a 100% success rate across its eight launches, was upgraded for this mission to increase its payload capability. This achievement underscores India's growing capability and confidence in independently launching advanced communication payloads, contributing to the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (self-dependent India) initiative.