The defence ministry on Wednesday signed a 3,000 crore contract with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), for an advanced communication satellite, GSAT 7B, for the army to fulfill a long-standing need, officials familiar with the matter said. This agreement will significantly improve the Indian Army's communication capability.
The satellite will significantly improve the army's capacity to communicate by giving troops and formations mission-critical beyond line-of-sight communication.
“The satellite will considerably enhance the communication capability of the army by providing mission-critical beyond line-of-sight communication to troops and formations as well as weapon and airborne platforms,” the defence ministry said.
The Indian Army does not currently possess a dedicated satellite, in contrary to the Indian Navy and Air Force.
ISRO will develop the five-ton geostationary satellite on its own. According to the officials, the satellite with improved security features will meet the tactical communication needs of ground soldiers as well as remotely piloted aircraft, air defence weapons, and other mission-critical and fire support platforms.
According to the sources, the army would most likely receive the satellite in 2026.
(Image: isro has developed the SSLV launch vehicle to put in low earth orbit satellites weighing less than 500 kg)
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