Skyroot Aerospace marked a significant milestone as its Vikram-1 rocket—India’s first privately developed orbital launch vehicle—was ceremonially flagged off for Sriharikota by A. Revanth Reddy. The event took place at the company’s Max-Q campus in Hyderabad, in the presence of D. Sridhar Babu.
The ceremony symbolized the rocket’s transition from testing to launch readiness, with the payload fairing—designed to protect onboard satellites during ascent—flagged off as part of the proceedings. This milestone follows the successful completion of pre-flight testing at Skyroot’s facilities, while propulsion stages have already been stationed at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.
Addressing the gathering, Shri A. Revanth Reddy stated, “This occasion marks a defining step in Telangana’s ambition to emerge as a global aerospace hub. With focused investments in talent development, policy support, and infrastructure, we are committed to enabling companies like Skyroot to thrive.”
Highlighting the mission’s broader impact, Pawan Kumar Chandana, Co-founder and CEO, said, “We are honoured by this support. Vikram-1 represents a major leap for India’s private space ecosystem, enabling responsive and cost-effective satellite launches for a rapidly growing global market.”
Echoing this sentiment, Naga Bharath Daka, Co-founder and COO, added, “With critical testing completed, we are entering the integration and launch campaign phase. This is a pivotal moment as we move toward a historic first launch.”
Vikram-1 is a multistage launch vehicle capable of deploying up to 350 kg to low Earth orbit. Built using carbon composite structures and powered by advanced propulsion systems, including 3D-printed engines, the rocket underscores India’s growing capabilities in private space technology.
The launch, expected in the coming months, will be conducted under the authorization of IN-SPACe with technical oversight from ISRO, positioning Skyroot among a select group of global private launch providers.
