India’s private space ambitions are moving closer to a key milestone as Skyroot Aerospace readies its Vikram-I rocket for its maiden flight from Sriharikota.
The first launch of Vikram-I is currently planned for around February 2026, though no confirmed launch date has been announced yet. The 4-stage rocket represents a major step forward for India’s private space sector and reflects the growing role of non-government players in launch services.
Vikram-I is designed to be a compact yet powerful launch vehicle. Standing between 20–26 meters tall, it can carry payloads of up to 350 kg to low Earth orbit. The rocket generates a total thrust of 1,200 kN, enabling it to support a range of small satellite missions.
Built with an all-carbon composite structure, Vikram-I is designed for speed and flexibility. One of its key advantages is its rapid readiness, with the vehicle capable of being prepared for launch within 24 hours. This feature allows faster mission turnaround compared to traditional launch systems.
The rocket uses a combination of solid and hypergolic engines across its 4 stages. Its main stage, Kalam-1200, delivers 120 tons of thrust, forming the backbone of the vehicle’s lift capability.
Backed by an investment of ₹1,000 crore and supported by Skyroot’s Infinity Campus, the company plans to scale production to 1 rocket per month. This manufacturing goal is intended to support both dedicated launches and rideshare missions, depending on customer demand.
With Vikram-I nearing its first flight, Skyroot Aerospace is positioning itself as a key player in India’s evolving private space ecosystem.
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