India’s space programme reached a major landmark after the country successfully launched its heaviest satellite ever from Indian soil.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, congratulated the Indian Space Research Organisation for the successful LVM3 mission. The heavy lift rocket placed the 6.5 tonne BlueBird Block 2 satellite of US based firm AST Space Mobile into a 520 km circular orbit.
The Prime Minister said the mission marked a key step forward for India’s space capabilities and future goals, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.
“A significant stride in India’s space sector. The successful LVM3-M6 launch, placing the heaviest satellite ever launched from Indian soil, the spacecraft of the U.S., BlueBird Block-2, into its intended orbit, marks a proud milestone in India’s space journey,” PM Modi said in a post on X formerly Twitter.
He added that the mission strengthens it’s position in the global market. “It strengthens India’s heavy-lift launch capability and reinforces our growing role in the global commercial launch market,” the Prime Minister said.
PM Modi also highlighted the mission’s contribution to national self reliance. ”The LVM3 launch was also reflective of efforts towards an Aatmanirbhar Bharat and congratulated hardworking space scientists and engineers.”
Praising the progress of the space programme, he said, “India continues to soar higher in the world of space! Powered by India’s youth, our space programme is getting more advanced and impactful.”
The Prime Minister noted that the reliable performance of the LVM3 rocket will support future ambitions. “With LVM3 demonstrating reliable heavy-lift performance, we are strengthening the foundations for future missions such as Gaganyaan, expanding commercial launch services and deepening global partnerships,” he said.
PM Modi concluded by stressing the long term impact of the achievement. “This increased capability and boost to self-reliance are wonderful for the coming generations,” he said.
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