ISRO’s LVM3 Draws Major Industry Interest

At least six Indian companies and consortiums, including Larsen & Toubro, Adani Group, JSW and Mahindra, are reportedly considering partnerships with ISRO to manufacture and commercially operate the LVM3, popularly known as ‘Bahubali’. Interested bidders are expected to submit expressions of interest for access to the technology and expertise needed to manufacture, launch and operate the heavy-lift rocket.

The technology transfer will cover key areas including propulsion, avionics, navigation, manufacturing, testing, vehicle integration and launch operations. The move is part of ISRO’s broader strategy to transfer routine rocket production and launches to private companies, allowing the space agency to focus more on advanced and deep-space missions. The LVM3 transfer follows similar efforts involving the SSLV and PSLV.

Expressions of interest are due by Monday, with formal bidding expected in October. The selected company or consortium will have 42 months to complete the technology-transfer process before independently manufacturing the rocket and its systems. With India’s space economy projected to grow significantly, the LVM3 opportunity could further strengthen the country’s private space sector and launch-service capabilities.

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