The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved another historic feat on Sunday by launching its heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03, into orbit. The 4,410-kg satellite was carried by India’s powerful LVM3-M5 ‘Bahubali’ rocket, marking a major step in India’s capability to launch heavy satellites from its own soil.
The launch took place at 5:26 PM from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. The mission was hailed as a success after the satellite was placed precisely into its intended orbit.
Satellite to Enhance Communication Capabilities
According to ISRO, CMS-03 is a multi-band communication satellite designed to provide advanced communication services over a wide oceanic area, including the entire Indian landmass. The satellite will serve as a replacement for the GSAT-7 series, launched in 2013, and is expected to operate for at least 15 years.
Despite weather challenges, ISRO scientists ensured the mission’s success through careful planning and flawless execution.
ISRO Chief Praises Team Effort
ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan congratulated the entire team, confirming that the launch vehicle had “successfully injected the communication satellite into the required orbit.”
He highlighted the rocket’s past success, saying, “The previous launch was the most prestigious Chandrayaan-3, which brought pride to the nation.” He added that Sunday’s mission brought “yet another pride” with the successful placement of a heavier satellite in orbit.
The ‘Bahubali’ Rocket: India’s Heavy-Lift Powerhouse
Nicknamed ‘Bahubali’ for its strength and heavy-lift capacity, the LVM3-M5 is a three-stage launch vehicle. It includes:
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Two solid motor strap-ons (S200)
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A liquid propellant core stage (L110)
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A cryogenic upper stage (C25)
ISRO noted that all eight launches of the LVM3, including its experimental flight, have been successful, giving it a 100% success rate.
The LVM3 is fully indigenously developed, including the complex C25 cryogenic stage, which was a key technological achievement for India’s space program.
PM Modi and Leaders Praise ISRO
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated ISRO scientists for the achievement. In a post on X, he said, “Our space sector continues to make us proud. Powered by our space scientists, it is commendable how our space sector has become synonymous with excellence and innovation. Their successes have furthered national progress and empowered countless lives.”
Our space sector continues to make us proud!
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 2, 2025
Congratulations ISRO on the successful launch of India’s heaviest communication satellite, CMS-03.
Powered by our space scientists, it is commendable how our space sector has become synonymous with excellence and innovation. Their…
Union Minister Jitendra Singh also praised ISRO and PM Modi, calling the launch another sign of India’s growing space strength.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu wrote on X (formerly twitter), "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Team @isro on the “Bahubali” launch of #LVM3M5, which has carried India’s heaviest communication satellite, #CMS03, into its intended orbit with precision. This achievement reflects India’s growing strength in space technology and some truly heavyweight weightlifting in the field of communications."
I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Team @isro on the “Bahubali” launch of #LVM3M5, which has carried India’s heaviest communication satellite, #CMS03, into its intended orbit with precision. This achievement reflects India’s growing strength in space technology and some… pic.twitter.com/aT4bF1mDps
— N Chandrababu Naidu (@ncbn) November 2, 2025
From French Launchpads to Indian Soil
Before this mission, ISRO relied on foreign launch sites for its heaviest satellites. The agency used Arianespace’s Ariane rockets from French Guiana’s Kourou launch base to deploy large payloads.
In 2018, ISRO launched its previous heaviest communication satellite, GSAT-11 (5,854 kg), using an Ariane-5 VA-246 rocket. Now, with the success of LVM3-M5, India has demonstrated full self-reliance in launching heavy satellites from its own territory.
Looking Ahead: Human Spaceflight Mission
ISRO also announced plans to use a human-rated version of LVM3, known as HRLV, for its upcoming Gaganyaan Mission—India’s first manned space mission.
The LVM3’s success record began with its first development flight, the Crew Module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment (CARE), launched in December 2014. Since then, the rocket has evolved into India’s most dependable and advanced heavy-lift launcher.