IN-SPACe Opens LVM-3 ‘Bahubali’ Technology To Private Sector For India’s Space Growth

India has taken a major step toward opening its heavy-lift rocket ecosystem to private industry, with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the transfer of technology of the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3), the country’s most powerful rocket, widely referred to as “Bahubali” for its 640-tonne lift capability.

The LVM3, developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (Indian Space Research Organisation), is regarded by scientists as the agency’s most versatile and reliable workhorse for heavy payload missions. It has been used in several landmark space missions, including the Chandrayaan-3 lunar mission and key communication satellite launches, making it central to India’s deep-space and commercial launch capabilities.

According to IN-SPACe, the move is part of a broader strategy to expand India’s presence in the rapidly growing global space economy while increasing the frequency of launch operations. The agency said the initiative is aimed at enabling private players to handle end-to-end development, operation, and commercialisation of the LVM3 system, marking a significant shift in India’s space sector policy.

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This development follows earlier efforts to open up other launch vehicle technologies to the private sector. IN-SPACe had previously invited EOI for the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), while in September 2025, it signed a technology transfer agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), signalling a structured push toward industrial participation in space missions.

Officials said the LVM3 technology transfer is intended for Indian companies or consortia with experience in large-scale, multi-disciplinary engineering projects capable of managing complex aerospace systems. The aim is to enable them to absorb and commercialise proven launch technology and compete in the international heavy-lift satellite launch market, where demand for reliable and cost-effective services continues to rise.

ISRO scientists have described the LVM3 as one of the most dependable launch vehicles in India’s fleet, having successfully executed missions such as CMS-03 and other communication satellite deployments. With this move, India is positioning its private sector to play a more direct role in high-end space infrastructure, potentially reshaping the country’s role in the global launch services industry over the coming decade.

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