ISRO Launches Heaviest Military Satellite CMS-03
In News
What Happened
Why It Matters
Background
History & Context
What Changed
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Weight Capacity: BEFORE, ISRO often relied on foreign space agencies like Arianespace to launch satellites heavier than 4,000 kg. NOW, ISRO can launch payloads up to 4,400 kg using its indigenous LVM3 rocket from Sriharikota.
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Naval Communication: BEFORE, the Indian Navy relied on the aging GSAT-7 (Rukmini) satellite which was reaching the end of its mission life. NOW, the Navy has access to the upgraded CMS-03 (GSAT-7R) satellite for superior, secure, and uninterrupted maritime communication.
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Strategic Coverage: BEFORE, legacy systems offered limited bandwidth for blue-water naval operations. NOW, CMS-03 provides enhanced transponders, allowing faster real-time networking of warships, submarines, and aircraft across the Indian Ocean Region.
Prelims Angle
NCERT Connection
Practice Questions
Q1
Correct Statement(s)Which of the following statements regarding the CMS-03 (GSAT-7R) satellite is/are correct? 1. It is a dedicated military communication satellite launched primarily for the Indian Air Force. 2. It was launched using the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) and is the heaviest satellite launched from Indian soil.