Overview
- ISRO says the fully integrated LVM3-M5 with the roughly 4,400 kg CMS-03 moved to the Sriharikota pad on Oct. 26 for final checkouts, fueling and rehearsals.
- The mission aims to insert CMS-03 into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit to extend coverage across the Indian landmass and adjacent ocean regions.
- This will be LVM3’s fifth operational flight and its first since launching Chandrayaan-3 in July 2023.
- CMS-03, also referenced as GSAT-7R, was contracted with the Indian Navy in 2019 to replace GSAT-7 and support secure voice, data and video links.
- The Times of India reports the launch remains on schedule after Cyclone Montha shifted course near the Andhra Pradesh coast.