PixxelSpace Wins Rs 12K Crore Deal to Build India's Own Satellite Network
- India’s space regulator selects PixxelSpace-led consortium for a Rs 12 billion earth observation satellite project.
- The initiative aims to strengthen India’s self-reliance by reducing dependence on foreign navigation systems like GPS.
- The project supports the expansion of India’s NavIC system and involves key local space tech firms.
India’s space regulator has awarded a major contract to a consortium led by Google-backed startup PixxelSpace to develop a commercial constellation of earth observation satellites. The project, valued at over Rs 12 billion (nearly $137 million), will span five years and aims to boost India’s indigenous space capabilities.
The consortium includes local space technology firms Piersight Space, Satsure Analytics India, and Dhruva Space. Together, they will design, build, and operate the satellite constellation, according to the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe).
PixxelSpace outbid defence equipment giants Astra Microwave and Bharat Electronics to secure the contract. The project aligns with the Indian government’s goal to reduce reliance on foreign systems such as the U.S. Global Positioning System (GPS).
India promotes its regional navigation satellite system, NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation), as offering more accurate navigation domestically. This initiative supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s push for self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat), encouraging the use of homegrown technologies.
To further bolster NavIC adoption, India is pressing global smartphone manufacturers like Samsung, Xiaomi, and Apple to make their devices compatible with the Indian navigation system in the near future, highlighting its strategic importance for the economy and national security.
