The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is expected to launch GSAT-7B by mid-2028 as the Indian Army’s first dedicated communication satellite. The satellite is designed to provide secure, round-the-clock connectivity for troops and military units, including in remote border areas and challenging terrain.
Military satellite communications
GSAT-7B is intended to provide beyond-line-of-sight communication for forward-deployed troops, military formations, weapon systems and airborne platforms. Beyond-line-of-sight communication enables links between users who cannot communicate directly through a terrestrial line-of-sight connection. Satellite links can support communications across large distances and difficult terrain. The Indian Army currently relies on the Indian Air Force’s GSAT-7A for satellite-based communication. GSAT-7B will provide the Army with a dedicated satellite communication capability. Its planned coverage includes remote operational areas where terrestrial communication infrastructure may be difficult to establish or maintain.
Geostationary communications satellites
GSAT-7B is planned as a five-tonne geostationary satellite, which would make it India’s heaviest communication satellite to date. A geostationary satellite orbits above the equator at an altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometres and has an orbital period matching Earth’s rotation. It therefore appears at a fixed position in the sky to observers on the ground. Geostationary satellites are used for communication, broadcasting and meteorological services. Their orbital position allows ground-based communication systems to maintain links with the satellite without continuously tracking its movement across the sky.
Indigenous development and procurement
In March 2023, the Ministry of Defence signed a ₹2,963-crore contract with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) for the indigenous design, development and manufacture of GSAT-7B. NSIL is the commercial arm of ISRO. The project forms part of India’s military satellite communications capacity. The launch was initially planned for November 2027 and is now expected by mid-2028. Technical evaluations have caused an approximately six-month delay. On 15 October 2026, a ₹2,563-crore contract for GSAT-7C for the Indian Air Force was finalised.
Important Facts for Exams
- GSAT-7B is the Indian Army’s first dedicated communication satellite.
- GSAT-7A currently supports the Indian Army’s satellite-based communication needs.
- NSIL is the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation.
- GSAT-7C is being developed for the Indian Air Force.
GSAT-7B is planned to support secure satellite communication for military users, including troops, weapon systems and airborne platforms. Its stated mass is five tonnes, and its planned orbit is geostationary.
