Gautam Adani plans BIG entry in…, Adani Group among three finalists shortlisted for…, to compete with Elon Musk’s SpaceX

If successful, Gautam Adani’s venture into the space sector could significantly boost India’s position in the global space race and challenge the dominance of established players like Elon Musk led SpaceX.

Indian business tycoon Gautam Adani is making a significant move into the space sector. The Adani Group is set to compete in the production of India’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), which can challenge global space industry leaders like Elon Musk’s SpaceX.

Adani Group Among Top Contenders

According to a report by Reuters, the Adani Group is among the three finalists shortlisted to produce India’s smallest satellite launch vehicle (SSLV). The other two contenders are state-owned companies Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). If successful, Adani Defense Systems, in collaboration with its subsidiary Alpha Design Technologies, could lead the production of SSLVs in India.

What Is SSLV?

The Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), is a rocket designed for cost-effective satellite launches. It can carry payloads of up to 500 kg to low-Earth orbit (LEO). With the global satellite launch market experiencing a surge in demand for small satellite deployment, SSLV has more commercial value.

India’s Push For Privatization

Following the successful launch of SSLV in 2023, the Indian government decided to transfer its production and technology to private industries. This move is aimed at expanding the country’s commercial space sector and competing in the global satellite launch market, currently dominated by SpaceX.

The SSLV production contract attracted bids from 20 companies. The winning bidder will be required to pay ISRO approximately Rs 3 billion to gain access to the SSLV’s manufacturing process, design intricacies, and quality assurance training. The 24-month contract also includes technical support and the successful execution of two SSLV launches.

Experts believe that this privatization initiative could be a game-changer for India’s space industry. By involving private players like the Adani Group, the country aims to establish a stronger presence in the global satellite launch market.