ISRO tests CE20 engine for LVM3-M7

The Indian Space Research Organisation (India — ISRO) successfully conducted a flight acceptance hot test of its CE20 cryogenic engine for the seventh operational mission of the LVM3 launch vehicle (LVM3-M7) on July 6, 2026, at the India — ISRO Propulsion Complex in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. The test used a nozzle protection system (NPS) for the first time, allowing sea-level testing of the engine with a full-area-ratio nozzle. The engine operated at 19.5 tonnes for 45 seconds and 22 tonnes for 25 seconds, confirming satisfactory performance. The CE20 engine has previously flown on eight LVM3 missions, including Chandrayaan-2, Chandrayaan-3, and three commercial missions, and has been human-rated for the Gaganyaan program.