India’s space industry is witnessing a transformative moment as Skyroot Aerospace, a Hyderabad based startup, prepares to launch the nation’s first privately built commercial rocket by January 2026. This milestone represents a significant leap forward for India’s emerging private space sector and demonstrates the country’s growing capabilities in commercial satellite deployment.
From Vision to Reality
Established in 2018 by former ISRO engineers Pawan Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, Skyroot Aerospace has already proven its technical prowess. The company made headlines in 2022 with the successful launch of Vikram-S, marking India’s first private rocket launch. Now, the startup is transitioning from experimental missions to full scale commercial operations, offering satellite launch services to both domestic and international clients.
Business Model and Growth Strategy
Skyroot’s approach centers on making space access more affordable and frequent. Each rocket requires approximately eight to nine months to manufacture, with production costs ranging between $2-3 million. The company projects revenues of around $5 million per launch, creating a sustainable business model in the competitive small satellite launch market.
The startup has secured approximately $95 million in funding from investors, capital that will be deployed to expand manufacturing capabilities and enhance launch infrastructure. Initially, Skyroot plans to conduct one launch every three months, with ambitious scaling plans to achieve monthly launch frequency by 2027.
Strengthening India’s Space Economy
This development arrives at a pivotal time for India’s space sector. The country now hosts over 200 space related startups, collectively working toward a projected market valuation of $44 billion by 2033. Skyroot’s commercial operations will play a crucial role in establishing India as a reliable provider in the global satellite launch market.
By focusing on cost effective solutions and rapid turnaround times, Skyroot Aerospace exemplifies how private enterprise can complement national space programs. The upcoming January 2026 launch will not only mark a commercial milestone but also validate the viability of India’s private space ecosystem, paving the way for increased innovation and investment in the sector.
