Space Mission / PM Modi congratulates ISRO on successful launch of NavIC satellite NVS-03

New Delhi, Oct 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated scientists and engineers of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) following the successful launch of the GSLV-F18 rocket carrying NVS-03, India's next-generation navigation satellite, describing the mission as a significant milestone in strengthening the country's indigenous navigation capabilities.

Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at ISRO on the successful launch of GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03. This mission marks an important step in strengthening NavIC, our indigenous satellite navigation system. Equipped with enhanced capabilities, NVS-03 will further our pursuit of self-reliance in critical technologies and support navigation services that benefit our people. The dedication and ingenuity of our space scientists continue to make our nation proud. @isro

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 31, 2026

In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Congratulations to our scientists and engineers at ISRO on the successful launch of GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03.”

He said the mission marked an important step in strengthening Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC), India's indigenous satellite navigation system.

“Equipped with enhanced capabilities, NVS-03 will further our pursuit of self-reliance in critical technologies and support navigation services that benefit our people. The dedication and ingenuity of our space scientists continue to make our nation proud,” the Prime Minister said.

Successful Launch

ISRO on Friday launched NVS-03 aboard the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F18) from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

The launch took place at 11:51 p.m.

“GSLV-F18 carrying NVS-03 lifts off from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SHAR, Sriharikota,” ISRO said in a post on X.

The 50-metre-tall, three-stage launch vehicle carried the 2,232-kg satellite with the objective of placing it into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). After deployment, the spacecraft will perform orbit-raising manoeuvres before reaching its designated geosynchronous position at 32.5 degrees East.

Strengthening NavIC

NVS-03 is the third satellite in the second-generation NVS series designed to augment NavIC, India's regional satellite navigation system, and ensure uninterrupted navigation services.

The satellite is equipped with an indigenous atomic clock along with procured atomic clocks. It also carries the L1 navigation signal in addition to the existing L5 and S-band signals, enhancing the overall performance and utility of the NavIC network.
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NavIC provides accurate Position, Velocity and Timing (PVT) services across India and regions extending nearly 1,500 km beyond the country's landmass.

ISRO plans to launch five second-generation navigation satellites to strengthen the existing constellation, introduce advanced capabilities and ensure continuity of services. The latest mission forms part of India's broader effort to enhance indigenous space-based navigation infrastructure and reduce dependence on foreign navigation systems.