Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday virtually inaugurated Skyroot Aerospace’s new Infinity campus in Hyderabad, where the startup showcased Vikram-1, India’s first privately built orbital rocket. Designed to launch satellites into Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Vikram-1 marks a historic milestone in the country’s commercial space journey and the rise of India’s private space ecosystem.
Designed and Built Entirely in India
Vikram-1 has been fully engineered and manufactured by Skyroot Aerospace, reflecting India’s rapid advances in propulsion technology, composite materials, avionics, and launch-vehicle integration. The rocket demonstrates India’s ability to independently develop complex orbital-class launch systems, once a domain dominated by traditional public-sector space agencies.
Fast, Flexible and Cost-Efficient Satellite Launches
Skyroot has designed Vikram-1 to support rapid, on-demand, and affordable satellite deployment for customers in India and abroad. With its adaptable architecture, the rocket enables flexible launch schedules and cost-effective access to LEO positioning Skyroot as a strong contender in the global commercial launch market.
India’s Largest Private Rocket Facility
The newly inaugurated Infinity campus, spanning over 2 lakh sq ft, can design, integrate, and test multiple launch vehicles simultaneously. The facility will allow Skyroot to build one Vikram-series orbital rocket every month, supporting scalable, repeatable launch operations.
This boosts India’s private manufacturing capacity at a time when global demand for commercial launches is booming.
A Boost for India’s Private Space Sector
Vikram-1 represents a breakthrough moment for Indian space startups, proving that private companies can now meaningfully complement ISRO’s capabilities. The rocket stands as a testament to the success of government reforms that opened India’s space sector to private innovation, investment, and competition.
Young Engineers Powering the Mission
A young team of Gen-Z engineers, designers, coders, and scientists led the development of Vikram-1. Their advancements in propulsion, composite structures, and stage engineering highlight the rising depth of talent within India’s private space-tech ecosystem.
Strengthening India’s Global Space Presence
With Vikram-1, India is poised to strengthen its position in the international satellite launch market, offering dependable solutions for Earth observation, communication, and scientific missions. The rocket reinforces India’s reputation as a preferred destination for private and international space launches.
Launch Imminent, Major Investments Planned
Skyroot co-founder Pawan Kumar Chandana confirmed that Vikram-1 is launch-ready within two months. The project has already created over 1,000 high-tech jobs, and Skyroot plans to invest ₹1,000 crore to scale production, enhance rapid-launch capabilities, and further accelerate India’s commercial space ambitions.
