ISRO Welcomes Private Sector in Navigation Systems Development

The Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), S. Somanath Narayanan, has expressed optimism regarding the private sector’s involvement in developing navigation systems for spacecraft and defence applications. Speaking on November 25, 2023, in Thiruvananthapuram, he highlighted that these initiatives align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision of transforming India into a developed nation by 2047. Narayanan emphasized the importance of indigenous capabilities in navigation technology, stating that reliance on imports must be reduced.

During a media interaction after inaugurating a new Centre of Excellence in Navigation, established by Ananth Technologies at Kinfra Park, Narayanan noted the complexity of navigation systems. He remarked, “When we talk about Viksit Bharat 2047, it is our responsibility to ensure no imports are required. Navigation is a very critical area, and ISRO alone cannot develop it.” The collaboration with private enterprises like Ananth Technologies is seen as a significant step toward achieving self-reliance in this critical sector.

The facility inaugurated by ISRO is recognized as world-class and is expected to play a vital role in the future of India’s navigation capabilities. Historically, India has depended heavily on foreign technology for navigation in both space missions and defence systems. Narayanan pointed out that developing this technology domestically will lead to significant cost reductions. “At the development stage, costs would be on par with other countries, as only one or two units are made, and a lot of work is involved. But in production mode, I believe costs will drop drastically,” he explained.

Advancements in India’s Space Missions

In addition to the developments in navigation systems, Narayanan provided updates on India’s ambitious manned space mission, Gaganyaan. He revealed that ISRO has completed 8,000 tests related to the mission, which includes propulsion hot tests, simulations, structural tests, and acoustic tests. “We are now in the final stages of software development and simulation. 2027 is the target set by our PM for the Gaganyaan mission, and before that, we have to complete three unmanned missions. Preparations for the first unmanned mission are underway,” he added.

Furthermore, Narayanan announced plans for launching the first private PSLV-N1 within the current financial year. Regarding the BlueBird mission, he stated that preparations are ongoing, although the launch date has yet to be determined.

The establishment of the Centre of Excellence in Navigation by Ananth Technologies aims to achieve full strategic autonomy in Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) technologies. This development aligns with ISRO’s broader goals of advancing India’s capabilities in space and defence sectors while reducing dependence on foreign technology.

As India strides toward greater self-sufficiency in critical technologies, the collaboration between ISRO and private sector players like Ananth Technologies marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s technological evolution.