Skyroot rocket puts India alongside U.S., China in private orbital launch

Indian space startup Skyroot successfully test-launched a low-orbit rocket carrying a 350 kg payload on July 18, 2026, becoming the first Indian private company to achieve orbital launch capability. The company, backed by GIC and BlackRock, plans to start commercial operations in 2027 with a goal of one flight per month. Skyroot will compete in the sub-1,000 kg satellite launch market against U.S. firms like Rocket Lab and Firefly Aerospace, and Chinese companies such as i-Space and Galactic Energy. Co-founder Naga Bharath Daka emphasized cost competitiveness, leveraging India's legacy of low-cost space missions. The market for small launchers was valued at $5 billion in 2025, according to Analysys Mason.

First published Aug 4, 01:57 PM UTCUpdated Jul 23, 12:05 AM UTC1 reports · 1 sources

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Skyroot rocket puts India alongside U.S., China in private orbital launch

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Skyroot rocket puts India alongside U.S., China in private orbital launchUS Top News and AnalysisWesternJul 23, 12:05 AM UTC

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