In News:

In a historic development for India's space sector, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will, for the first time, completely transfer rocket technology to a domestic firm. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has secured the Transfer of Technology (ToT) for the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) through a competitive process facilitated by IN-SPACe, marking a new era of private-sector participation in space.

What is the SSLV Technology Transfer?

• Nature of ToT: Complete technology handover of ISRO’s SSLV to HAL.
• Awarded By: Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) after a two-stage national selection.
• Winning Bid: HAL won the bid with a ?511 crore offer — the highest among the contenders.
• Other Bidders: Consortia led by Alpha Design (Bengaluru) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (Hyderabad).
• Objective: To empower the private sector to build, market, and launch rockets independently, thus reducing reliance on ISRO for small satellite missions.

Key Features of the SSLV ToT

Parameter                          Details

Ownership     - HAL will own and operate the SSLV, with rights to modify its design and choose commercial partners.

Production Capability -    HAL aims to produce 6–10 SSLVs annually, based on demand.

ToT Duration - 2 years of technology handholding by ISRO, during which HAL will manufacture at least two SSLV prototypes.

Post-ToT -     HAL will operate independently post-ToT and may enter contracts for commercial launch services.

Contractual Roles -     ISRO (technical), IN-SPACe (regulatory + ToT coordination), NSIL (commercial interface), HAL (execution).

About Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL)

• Established: 23 December 1940 (as Hindustan Aircraft Limited).
• HQ: Bengaluru, Karnataka.
• Ministry: Ministry of Defence, Government of India.
• Core Role: India’s largest defence and aerospace PSU involved in aircraft, helicopters, engines, and now space systems.
• Key Contributions:
  • Manufactured MiG-21, SU-30MKI, LCA Tejas.
  • Supplied components for GSLV Mk-III, Mars Orbiter Mission, and Gaganyaan.
  • Collaborated with ISRO on cryogenic engines and launch vehicle structures.
• Publicly Listed: On BSE and NSE since 2018.

Significance:

• First Full Rocket ToT in India: Unlike earlier manufacturing contracts (e.g., PSLV), SSLV is entirely owned and operated by HAL.
• Boosts Private Sector Role: Aligns with India’s space sector reforms to commercialize launch services.
• Fosters Innovation & Autonomy: HAL can redesign the SSLV and partner globally, making India more competitive in the small satellite launch market.
• Strategic Diversification: HAL adds space systems to its portfolio, without affecting defence operations.