Izmo Microsystems Unveils Indigenous 40 GHz RF Package For Defence And Secure Communications

Bangalore based izmo Microsystems Pvt Ltd, the semiconductor arm of IZMO Limited, has achieved a significant milestone by developing and manufacturing an indigenous high-frequency RF Quad Flat No-Lead semiconductor package capable of operating at frequencies up to 40 GHz.

This package was created for a customer working on advanced RF modules intended for defence and secure wireless communication applications. Following successful assembly and electrical validation, the company has commenced production shipments, with manufacturing processes already established to support higher volumes as demand grows.

This achievement strengthens izmo Microsystems’ expertise in advanced RF and microwave semiconductor packaging. It demonstrates the company’s ability to design application-specific packages and take them seamlessly from concept and fabrication through assembly, validation, and commercial production.

The development highlights India’s growing capacity in semiconductor packaging for defence and strategic communication systems.

High-frequency semiconductor devices face mounting challenges as operating frequencies rise. Conventional moulded and open-cavity QFN packages often encounter performance limitations due to package parasitic.

To overcome these issues, izmo Microsystems engineered a package architecture with optimised trace geometry and precise die positioning. The design achieves wire bond lengths of approximately 0.3 mm and incorporates a precision air cavity around the die. This architecture reduces parasitic effects and ensures reliable operation at frequencies up to 40 GHz.

The technology has wide-ranging applications in radar, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerospace, satellite communications, and advanced wireless systems. These domains demand semiconductor components capable of reliable high-frequency performance, making this innovation strategically important.

The development also aligns with India’s increasing emphasis on domestic semiconductor and defence electronics capabilities. Rising defence requirements, indigenous procurement priorities, and the strategic need for secure communications are driving demand for locally developed technologies.

Dinanath Soni, Director of izmo Microsystems Pvt Ltd, emphasised that high-frequency RF devices require semiconductor packages designed as integral parts of RF systems.

He explained that the company developed the package around specific electrical and application requirements and completed the entire process through to production. He confirmed that production shipments have begun and that the company has the manufacturing capability to scale as requirements expand.

The company also noted that the government’s SEMICON 2.0 program could provide further support to the domestic packaging ecosystem. With an approved outlay of ₹1,27,500 crore, the program includes strengthening the Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP) and Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) industry.

This initiative is expected to accelerate India’s semiconductor packaging capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

izmo Microsystems offers package and process development, prototyping, qualification, and manufacturing services. Based in Bangalore, the company specialises in System-in-Package, advanced IC packaging, and high-reliability electronics. Its work spans defence and aerospace, telecommunications, industrial electronics, automotive, medical electronics, and optical communications, positioning it as a key contributor to India’s semiconductor and defence technology ecosystem.

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'Win-Win Nature': Chinese FM Defends India Trade Amid Xiaomi Scrutiny

China has described its economic and trade cooperation with India as mutually beneficial and win-win in nature. At a press briefing in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun emphasised that New Delhi should provide a fair, just, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese companies operating in India.

His remarks came in response to questions about reports that India’s Serious Fraud Investigation Office had recommended an investigation into Chinese smartphone maker Xiaomi.

Guo stated that he was not aware of the specific situation regarding Xiaomi but reiterated China’s expectation that India would ensure a level playing field for all foreign companies investing and operating in the country. He underlined that economic and trade cooperation between the two Asian giants has consistently delivered mutual benefits.

The comments follow heightened scrutiny in India over Chinese firms, particularly in the technology sector, with Xiaomi facing calls for investigation by the SFIO. This development has added a layer of complexity to bilateral economic ties, which remain significant despite political and security challenges.

When asked whether Chinese President Xi Jinping would attend the BRICS Summit in India later this week, Guo declined to elaborate. The question reflects growing anticipation over a possible meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi on the sidelines of the summit.

Such an encounter would be closely watched as both nations cautiously attempt to rebuild ties following the prolonged tensions triggered by the 2020 Galwan clashes.

India’s Ambassador to China, Vikram Doraiswami, has meanwhile made a strong pitch for deeper cooperation across trade, economy, climate action and the digital sphere.

Writing in the Chinese daily Global Times, Doraiswami argued that a stable, predictable and amicable India-China relationship would serve not only their combined population of around 2.8 billion but also contribute to global peace, stability and prosperity.

He highlighted that India’s Chairship of the 18th BRICS Summit is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” The summit’s agenda is framed around a human-centric approach, focusing on reinforcing institutional strength and supporting sustainable growth.

This theme reflects India’s broader vision of leveraging multilateral platforms to foster inclusive development and resilience in the face of global challenges.

The convergence of these diplomatic statements underscores the delicate balance in India-China relations. While economic cooperation is acknowledged as mutually beneficial, political sensitivities and regulatory scrutiny continue to shape the trajectory of engagement.

The BRICS Summit is expected to provide a crucial opportunity for both sides to reaffirm their commitment to constructive dialogue and explore avenues for collaboration in areas of shared interest.

ANI

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India Joins Global 6G Alliance With US And 24 Nations To Drive Innovation

India has formally joined the United States and 24 other nations in a global alliance to steer the development and deployment of next-generation 6G telecommunications networks.

The announcement was made by the US Department of Commerce following a bilateral meeting between US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Union Minister of State for Commerce and Industry Jitin Prasada on the sidelines of the G20 Innovation Ministerial in Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

The Department of Commerce highlighted that the initiative aims to ensure next-generation networks reflect shared security interests, strengthen competitiveness, and drive innovation in 6G. The agreement was finalised during discussions that underscored the importance of aligning technological frameworks among like-minded nations.

Jitin Prasada led the Indian delegation at the G20 Innovation Ministers’ meeting held on September 1 and 2. The delegation included Ajit Kumar, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), senior officials from MeitY, the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), and representatives from the Embassy of India in Washington, DC.

The G20 Innovation Ministerial concluded with a joint statement recognising that emerging technologies have the potential to unlock prosperity, enhance productivity, and expand opportunities for all citizens. This statement reinforced the collective commitment of member nations to harness innovation for inclusive growth.

On the sidelines of the Ministerial, Prasada engaged in several bilateral discussions. His meeting with Howard Lutnick focused on strengthening cooperation in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and data centres.

He encouraged greater US investments in India’s ISM2.0 initiative, proposed mechanisms for safeguards in AI, and emphasised the importance of advancing technology-led opportunities between India and the United States.

Prasada later posted on X that semiconductors, AI, and data centres are critical building blocks of the emerging digital economy. He noted that both sides examined avenues to deepen practical collaboration and thanked the US G20 Presidency for its hospitality.

The engagements during the visit underscored India’s growing role in shaping the global technology and innovation agenda.

They reaffirmed New Delhi’s commitment to building strategic partnerships that translate advances in AI, semiconductors, digital public infrastructure, robotics, and other emerging technologies into greater opportunities for innovation, economic growth, and improved quality of life for its citizens.

India’s participation in the 6G alliance signals its determination to be at the forefront of next-generation communications technology. It also reflects a broader strategy to integrate with global innovation networks while simultaneously strengthening domestic capabilities in critical sectors.

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DLRL’s Develops New Mobile AI-Driven Jammer Designed To Defeat Next-Gen Cognitive Military Radios

The Defence Research and Development Organisation is developing an advanced system to counter cognitive radio networks that employ artificial intelligence to evade detection and jamming.

With modern military communication systems becoming increasingly resilient to electronic countermeasures, this initiative marks a significant step in electronic warfare capabilities.

The system has been named the Smart Communication Jammer System (SCJS). It will be a large vehicle-mounted platform capable of detecting, analysing, classifying, direction-finding, monitoring and jamming tactical communication mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs).

These networks, known as MANETs, are highly adaptive wireless systems that can sense their environment and alter their settings to use the radio spectrum more efficiently.

Cognitive radios and MANETs can continuously scan for unused or underutilised frequency channels and rapidly switch frequencies. This makes them difficult to monitor or intercept using conventional jamming systems.

Unlike conventional radios that operate on pre-set channels, cognitive radios use artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyse their operating environment and dynamically switch between spectrum channels, potentially within microseconds, to evade interference.

The Defence Electronics Research Laboratory, a DRDO establishment, is the nodal agency for executing the project. It is seeking Indian industry partners for the design and development of the Smart Communication Jammer System.

According to DRDO’s requirements, the system should be capable of monitoring and jamming radios operating in the 30 MHz to 6,000 MHz frequency range. It should provide 360-degree detection coverage with a range of 20 km. It must also be capable of countering radios that change frequencies at rates of up to 2,000 hops per second.

The wide frequency range covers several tactical communication bands used by modern military systems. These include unmanned aerial vehicles, loitering munitions and software-defined radios. 

Traditional static or brute-force jammers, which use high-power radio-frequency signals across fixed bands, are less effective against such rapidly changing systems. An officer explained that this makes conventional jamming inadequate against cognitive radios.

Army officers noted that cognitive radio networks improve the reliability of military communications and the availability of information.

However, they also make it more difficult to monitor an adversary’s activity. Such networks have significant civilian applications as well. They can reduce spectrum congestion and improve the efficiency of wireless communications, offering benefits beyond the battlefield.

The Smart Communication Jammer System represents a critical advancement in India’s electronic warfare capabilities.

By targeting adaptive and AI-driven communication systems, it aims to ensure that the armed forces retain the ability to disrupt hostile networks while safeguarding their own communications.

The project also reflects DRDO’s emphasis on indigenous development, with industry participation expected to accelerate the program’s progress.

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India Launches 14 Quantum Products To Secure Future Communication Networks

India has taken a decisive step in fortifying its communication security with the unveiling of 14 indigenous quantum products by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) during its 43rd Foundation Day in New Delhi.

These innovations are designed to safeguard India’s communication networks against the looming threats posed by future quantum computers, ensuring resilience across civilian, enterprise, and defence applications.

The products harness both Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) and Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) technologies to secure phone calls, internet connections, and sensitive data.

By integrating these advanced methods, India is preparing its communication systems to remain secure even when quantum computing advances to the point of breaking classical encryption. This initiative reflects the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of self-reliance in critical technologies.

Among the QKD systems, Q-AKSHAY CD is a compact fibre-based solution employing Coherent One Way (COW) and Differential Phase Shift (DPS) protocols, while Q-AKSHAY MD represents the next generation, built on the Measurement Device Independent (MDI) protocol for enhanced security. These systems are designed to provide robust quantum-secure links across fibre networks, ensuring interception attempts are instantly detectable.

Critical quantum components unveiled include C-SPD, a Single-Photon Detector essential for quantum communication systems, and C-RD, a wideband RF driver for modulators. These components form the backbone of scalable quantum-secure networks, enabling India to build indigenous capability in quantum hardware.

The PQC solutions unveiled span multiple layers of communication. Q-SETU is a quantum-safe encryptor for Layer 3 communications with throughput up to 80 Mbps, while Q-MAHASETU is a commercial-grade encryptor for Layer 2/3 networks capable of 40 Gbps throughput.

Defence-grade solutions include Q-VIKRAM, offering 1 Gbps throughput for sensitive communications, and Q-PARAKRAM, which employs proprietary algorithms for strategic defence-grade encryption. For high-capacity optical links, Q-AMOGH secures transmissions at 200 Gbps, ensuring resilience for backbone networks.

Products designed for everyday and enterprise use include Q-DARSHAN, a quantum-safe video IP phone, and Q-VACHAN, an in-line node that upgrades existing IP phones with quantum security. Enterprise networks benefit from Q-RAQSHAK, which provides quantum-safe communication solutions, while Q-VAAYU delivers wireless point-to-point quantum-secure connectivity. Q-VAJRA1000 extends quantum-safe access to GPON and wireless radios, ensuring broad applicability across telecom infrastructure.

Category	Product	Application/Network Layer	Key Features/Throughput	Target Segment
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) Systems	Q-AKSHAY CD	Fibre-based QKD (COW & DPS protocols)	Compact 1U form factor; secure key generation over fibre	Telecom, Enterprise
	Q-AKSHAY MD	Fibre-based QKD (MDI protocol)	Measurement-Device-Independent; eliminates detector vulnerabilities; multi-topology over single-mode fibre	Defence, Strategic
Critical Quantum Components	C-SPD	Single-Photon Detector	Core sensing element for QKD receivers; Near-Infrared (NIR) SPAD-based	System Integrators
	C-RD	Wideband RF Driver	Drives intensity & phase modulators in quantum communication systems	System Integrators
Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Solutions	Q-SETU	Layer 3 Network Encryptor	Up to 80 Mbps; NIST PQC algorithms (ML-KEM, ML-DSA); IPSec integration	Enterprise, BFSI
	Q-MAHASETU	Layer 2/3 Commercial Encryptor	Up to 40 Gbps; high-speed quantum-resistant protection	Enterprise, Telecom
	Q-VIKRAM	Layer 2/3 Defence Encryptor	Up to 1 Gbps; defence-grade security for sensitive communications	Defence, Strategic
	Q-AMOGH	Layer 1 Optical Encryptor	Up to 200 Gbps; wire-rate encryption with minimum latency; hybrid Maths+Physics architecture	Data Centres, High-bandwidth networks
	Q-DARSHAN	Quantum-Safe Video IP Phone	SIP-based secure voice & video; NIST PQC for signaling & media	Enterprise, Government
	Q-VACHAN	In-line Node for IP Phones	Upgrades existing IP phones with quantum security; NIST PQC algorithms	Enterprise, Government
	Q-RAQSHAK	Enterprise Network Solution	Quantum-safe campus & external communications; distributed security architecture	Enterprise, BFSI
	Q-VAAYU	Wireless Point-to-Point Solution	Line-of-sight wireless; hybrid Classical+PQC encryption; solar/POE-ready	Defence, Remote sites
	Q-VAJRA1000	Quantum-Safe Access Node	Supports GPON & wireless radios; upgrades existing access networks	Telecom, Enterprise
	Q-PARAKRAM	Defence-Grade Encryptor	Proprietary algorithms for strategic communications; highest security classification	Defence, Strategic

The strategic significance of these products lies in their integration of QKD technologies with NIST-approved PQC algorithms, ensuring India’s communication infrastructure is protected against “harvest now, decrypt later” threats.

By spanning enterprise, telecom, wireless, optical, and defence applications, these solutions demonstrate India’s comprehensive approach to securing its digital future.

The launch event was presided over by Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Hon’ble Union Minister of Communications, alongside senior dignitaries. A consolidated booklet of C-DOT’s indigenous quantum solutions was also released, underscoring India’s commitment to building future-ready communication technologies.

This initiative positions India among the select nations capable of deploying indigenous quantum-secure communication systems, reinforcing strategic autonomy and national security.

The unveiling of these 14 products marks a milestone in India’s quantum journey, combining indigenous innovation with global relevance. It strengthens India’s defence, enterprise, and civilian communication networks, ensuring resilience against the cyber challenges of the quantum era.

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IIT-Madras Pulls-Off India's Biggest 6G Technological Breakthrough As Bharat Testbed Achieves Blazing 6.39 Gbps Speed

India has achieved a breakthrough in its 6G journey as IIT Madras researchers demonstrated an indigenous 6.39 Gbps data transmission speed on the Bharat 6G THz Testbed, Times Now reported on its Instagram handle.

This milestone strengthens India’s position in next-generation communication technology and highlights its growing deep-tech capabilities.

Researchers at IIT-Madras have successfully achieved a wireless data transmission rate of 6.39 Gbps using the Bharat 6G THz Testbed. This demonstration marks a significant step in the development and testing of terahertz communication technologies for future 6G networks.

The achievement underscores India’s growing expertise in advanced wireless communication and its push towards homegrown innovation in the 6G era.

The Bharat 6G THz Testbed operates in the terahertz spectrum, covering frequencies between 300 GHz and 10 THz. These frequencies lie between millimetre-wave and infrared portions of the electromagnetic spectrum.

Terahertz communication is attracting global research interest because it offers access to much wider bandwidths than existing wireless communication bands, enabling the transmission of substantially larger volumes of data at extremely high speeds.

At 6.39 Gbps, the demonstrated link was capable of transmitting 6.39 billion bits of data every second. While such speeds are currently being tested in controlled environments, they represent the potential of high-frequency links for applications requiring rapid data transfer.

Extended reality, advanced robotics, autonomous systems, and highly connected infrastructure are among the areas that could benefit from such high-capacity wireless links.

For example, immersive extended reality applications demand the rapid exchange of large amounts of visual and sensory data, while autonomous systems require minimal delays in communication.

The demonstration was carried out in collaboration with the Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research (SAMEER) and supported by the Telecom Technology Development Fund (TTDF).

A key aspect of this achievement is the availability of an indigenous environment for developing and testing high-frequency wireless technologies in India.

The Bharat 6G THz Testbed allows researchers to evaluate communication systems under controlled conditions before integration into larger networks, helping to identify technical challenges and validate performance.

India’s broader Bharat 6G vision aims to position the country as a major contributor to next-generation communication technologies and global standards.

Commercial 6G deployments are expected around 2030, and India’s latest demonstration shows that the nation is already experimenting with technologies that could define the future of communication.

The leap from 5G to 6G is not just about faster mobile internet; it is about connecting more devices, processing vast amounts of data, and supporting technologies that demand near-instant communication.

This achievement also reflects India’s growing deep-tech ecosystem, where indigenous research and development are driving progress in telecommunications.

The success of IIT-Madras highlights the importance of building advanced testbeds and achieving high-speed transmission capabilities to lay the technological foundation for the 6G era.

It is a significant milestone for Indian deep-tech and telecommunications research, reinforcing the country’s ambition to lead in global communication innovation.

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Avantel Secures ₹118 Crore DRDO Contract For Defence Communication Hub

Avantel Limited has secured a major contract worth ₹117.88 crore from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), under the Ministry of Defence, for the development, installation and commissioning of a ground segment hub dedicated to voice and data communication.

The company confirmed the award on Saturday, 29 August, marking a significant milestone in its expanding portfolio of defence communication solutions.

The contract is scheduled to be executed by February 2029. It involves the creation of a ground communication hub that will serve as a critical infrastructure for secure and reliable communication across defence networks.

The agreement also includes a warranty period of 36 months, ensuring sustained operational support and reliability for the systems deployed.

This latest order builds upon Avantel’s earlier success in securing a ₹459.9 crore rate contract from Zetwerk Manufacturing Businesses earlier this year. That contract covered the supply and maintenance of satellite communication equipment, highlighting Avantel’s growing role in India’s defence communication ecosystem.

The Zetwerk agreement included both equipment supply and long-term maintenance support, reinforcing the company’s expertise in delivering end-to-end solutions.

The domestic DRDO contract is structured to be executed over three years. It encompasses the manufacturing and supply of satellite communication systems, backed by a one-year comprehensive onsite warranty and a five-year annual maintenance contract (AMC).

This layered support framework ensures that the systems remain operationally effective and resilient over extended periods, a necessity for mission-critical defence applications.

Avantel’s consistent success in securing large-scale contracts reflects the increasing reliance on indigenous defence technology providers. The company has established itself as a trusted partner in delivering advanced communication systems that align with India’s strategic objectives under initiatives such as Atmanirbhar Bharat. By focusing on indigenous solutions, Avantel contributes to reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and strengthening India’s technological sovereignty.

The ground communication hub project is expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing India’s defence communication infrastructure. It will provide secure voice and data channels, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for defence operations.

This capability is vital for operational readiness, command and control, and strategic coordination across diverse theatres of operation.

Avantel’s expanding portfolio, including the DRDO and Zetwerk contracts, demonstrates its ability to deliver complex communication systems that meet stringent defence requirements.

The company’s expertise in satellite communication and ground infrastructure positions it as a key player in India’s defence modernisation program. With the execution timeline extending to 2029, the project will contribute significantly to India’s long-term defence preparedness.

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Reliance Jio’s 1,600-LEO Satellite Program Secures IN-SPACe Approval For India’s First Homegrown Constellation

Reliance Jio’s ambitious plan to deploy a constellation of about 1,600 low earth orbit satellites has received a significant boost with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre declaring the proposal technically sound, The Economic Times reported.

The evaluation was carried out jointly by IN-SPACe, the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Wireless Planning and Coordination wing of the Department of Telecommunications.

This approval places Jio’s program on par with global systems such as Starlink and clears the way for the government to extend regulatory support at the international level. The company had sought assistance for International Telecommunications Union filings and orbital rights, which require coordination with other operators to avoid interference.

Neither IN-SPACe nor Reliance Jio responded to queries on the matter. However, officials confirmed that the move paves the way for India’s first homegrown LEO constellation, a development with major implications for national security and strategic defence. The LEO segment is currently dominated by Starlink, which has more than 10,000 satellites in orbit, but geopolitical tensions are driving nations to reduce reliance on foreign operators.

The capacity proposed by Jio is unprecedented in India. The company has outlined plans to deliver between 4.5 and 5 terabit per second throughput across the country. This figure far exceeds Starlink’s approved 600 gigabit per second and Amazon Leo’s planned 3 terabit per second capacity, though Amazon has yet to secure authorisation from IN-SPACe.

The orbital parameters and technical architecture of Jio’s constellation have been designed to allow coexistence with another Indian constellation in the future. This ensures flexibility for the country’s satellite communications sector as more domestic players enter the field.

Jio intends to provide fixed satellite services including broadband and cellular backhaul, as well as mobile satellite services such as direct-to-device connectivity. To support these operations, the company plans to establish 20 to 22 ground stations across India.

The regulator has highlighted the merits of the proposal, noting that it meets strategic defence requirements and reduces dependence on overseas companies. It has recommended that regulatory and policy support be extended to Jio so that India can establish its first non-geostationary constellation.

In addition to the technical evaluation, discussions have already taken place at senior levels of government regarding the possibility of hosting defence payloads on some of the satellites. This would further enhance the strategic value of the constellation and integrate it into India’s broader defence infrastructure.

The approval marks a decisive step forward for Reliance Jio’s satellite program, positioning India to join the select group of nations with indigenous LEO systems. It also underscores the government’s determination to strengthen national security and technological self-reliance in the face of growing global competition.

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Sanyark Space: India’s Leap Toward Integrated Navigation And Communication Constellations

Sanyark Space has emerged as one of the most ambitious ventures in India’s private space sector, founded by former ISRO scientists Raghava Kundrapu and Akhileshwar Reddy Peseke.

Their vision is to build a resilient Low Earth Orbit constellation that integrates centimetre-level positioning, secure IoT connectivity, and software-defined satellite technology. The company is not merely focused on launching satellites but on creating the operating system for an autonomous world, where navigation, communication, and resilience converge seamlessly, according to a report by New Indian Express.

Raghava’s eight years at ISRO, where he contributed to over forty missions including launch vehicle and human spaceflight programs, gave him a strong systems-level understanding of space technologies. 

His subsequent role at Deloitte as a space technology consultant exposed him to national and state-level projects, where he identified critical gaps in positioning, navigation, and timing infrastructure.

The limitations of existing GNSS systems, particularly their metre-level accuracy, became evident during studies on satellite-based tolling. This challenge, combined with Akhileshwar’s experience on the GNSS tolling pilot project, led to the conception of Sanyark’s NAVCOM vision — a fusion of navigation and communication capabilities.

India’s dependence on foreign satellite infrastructure for navigation and timing services remains a strategic vulnerability. While NAVIC is a step toward sovereignty, it does not yet deliver the centimetre-level precision required for future mobility applications. From aviation and maritime operations to logistics and defence, critical infrastructure depends on positioning and timing data.

Sanyark Space aims to fill this gap by building sovereign infrastructure that ensures both accuracy and resilience against jamming and spoofing, threats that have already disrupted aviation and transportation globally.

The founders describe their mission as building a “space backbone.” This means creating a LEO-based infrastructure layer that supports not only consumer navigation but also telecommunications, financial systems, energy grids, drones, and defence networks.

Timing signals from satellites synchronise 5G networks, power grids, and even financial transactions, making them indispensable to modern economies. As autonomous systems proliferate, resilience will become as important as precision, and Sanyark intends to deliver both.

Unlike many companies focused on launch vehicles or Earth observation, Sanyark differentiates itself by integrating navigation and communication into a single satellite architecture. This convergence reflects the evolution of telecommunications standards toward 6G, where navigation and communication are increasingly inseparable. Globally, only a handful of companies are pursuing this integrated approach, and Sanyark aims to position India at the forefront of this emerging category.

The fusion of PNT and communications is driven by both technological advances and market demand. Autonomous vehicles, drones, logistics networks, and industrial systems require simultaneous navigation and communication capabilities.

Advances in electronics now allow both functions to be integrated into compact systems-on-chip, enabling seamless platforms that combine positioning, timing, and connectivity. Sanyark’s integrated NAVCOM satellites are designed to meet this demand.

India’s role in the global space race is shifting as private industry takes centre stage. Since the sector opened to private participation, startups have made progress in launch vehicles, satellite platforms, and Earth observation.

Navigation and communication represent the next frontier, and Sanyark sees an opportunity for India to leapfrog rather than catch up. By delivering sovereign NAVCOM infrastructure, the company aims to reduce dependence on foreign systems and establish India as a leader in next-generation space technologies.

The roadmap ahead is ambitious. Within the next twelve months, Sanyark plans to launch its first technology demonstration satellite, with high-altitude platform systems testing navigation technologies by year-end.

A second demonstration mission in 2027 will showcase the integrated NAVCOM architecture. Commercial deployment will follow, beginning with a constellation of 30 to 40 satellites covering India, the Middle East, and South Asia. The long-term vision is a global constellation of 200 to 240 satellites, with operational deployment targeted around 2029–30.

On the funding and validation front, Sanyark is participating in national initiatives focused on strategic space technologies and has been selected for investment and support programmes.

Over the past six months, the company has concentrated on developing proprietary signal waveforms and advancing the technology readiness of its PNT payloads. The next phase will integrate advanced communication capabilities, realising the vision of a fully integrated NAVCOM platform.

Sanyark Space represents a bold step in India’s private space journey. By addressing critical gaps in navigation and communication infrastructure, it is positioning itself as a cornerstone of the autonomous future, where precision, resilience, and connectivity will define the next era of technological progress.

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Exicom Successfully Demonstrates IP Mesh Networking With Indian Army

Mumbai-based Exicom has successfully demonstrated its advanced IP Mesh Networking system with the Indian Army, achieving reliable communication over distances of 5 to 15 kilometres in varied terrains. This marks a significant step in India’s defence modernisation drive, enhancing secure battlefield connectivity and situational awareness.

Exicom’s trials with the Indian Army validated the robustness of its IP Mesh radios, which maintained seamless communication across diverse environments including dense forests, hilly regions, and open fields. The system proved effective in both line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight conditions, ensuring uninterrupted voice, video, and data transmission.

The IP Mesh technology is designed to be infrastructure-less and host-less, making it suitable for deployment across land, air, and sea platforms. During the trials, soldiers equipped with Exicom radios were able to share critical information in real time, coordinate operations, and maintain situational awareness even while on the move.

The network’s self-healing and adaptive capabilities ensured that connectivity was sustained despite dynamic battlefield conditions.

Exicom’s solution integrates seamlessly with existing Indian Army networks such as the Army Data Network (ADN) and AWAN, providing interoperability with both legacy and modern systems. The radios are secured with AES 256-bit encryption, offering protection against interception and ensuring confidentiality of communications. Features such as Low Probability of Intercept (LPI), Low Probability of Detection (LPD), and Low Probability of Exploitation (LPE) further enhance operational security.

The trials also highlighted the system’s scalability, enabling convoy commanders and tactical units to maintain fluid communication along extended routes. This capability is vital for modern battlefield operations where mobility and rapid response are critical. The technology supports integration with unmanned systems, drones, and autonomous vehicles, thereby extending its utility beyond conventional troop communication.

Exicom has been actively contributing to India’s defence modernisation under the Make in India initiative. Its collaboration with Domo Tactical Communications (DTC) has enabled the development of indigenous IP Mesh radios tailored to the needs of Indian forces.

These radios are versatile, available in handheld, body-worn, vehicle-mounted, and drone-based repeater configurations, ensuring adaptability across tactical levels.

The successful trials underscore the importance of advanced communication systems in digitising the battlefield. Reliable mesh networking enhances command and control, logistics, intelligence preparation, and medical support within tactical battle areas. By ensuring secure and scalable connectivity, Exicom’s technology strengthens India’s defensive posture and supports the operational effectiveness of its armed forces.

The achievement also reflects India’s growing emphasis on indigenous defence technologies that reduce reliance on foreign systems. Exicom’s IP Mesh Networking solution represents a critical step towards building a self-reliant and technologically advanced military communication infrastructure.

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Reliance Jio Plans 1,650‑Satellite Constellation To Challenge Starlink

Reliance Jio is preparing to enter the satellite communications sector in a major way by planning its own low Earth orbit constellation of between 1,600 and 1,650 satellites, according to a report by ET Infra.

These satellites are expected to be deployed at an altitude of around 650 kilometres within the next two to three years. The aim is to provide broadband and direct‑to‑device connectivity services across India and potentially beyond.

The Mukesh Ambani‑led company has already submitted a proposal to the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre, which is currently evaluating the technical architecture and configuration of the constellation.

This marks the first time an Indian entity has sought to establish such a large‑scale LEO network, a segment currently dominated by Elon Musk’s Starlink, which has around 10,000 satellites in orbit.

The government is expected to support Jio by assisting with International Telecommunication Union filings to secure orbital slots. Officials have indicated that this support will extend to other Indian companies that wish to enter the strategic satellite sector. This move is significant as countries worldwide are attempting to reduce reliance on foreign satellite operators due to heightened national security concerns.

Experts estimate that building and deploying such a constellation will require investment in the range of $10‑15 billion, equivalent to roughly ₹95,000‑141,500 crore. Depending on the satellite design, the system could generate several terabits of capacity, making it a powerful broadband backbone. The SATCOM unit will be housed under Jio Platforms, alongside the company’s other digital assets.

Jio Platforms is also preparing for an initial public offering in the near future, which could provide additional capital for the ambitious satellite project. The company’s entry into the space sector was first reported last month, signalling a strategic expansion beyond terrestrial telecom services.

Globally, other major players are also building LEO constellations. Jeff Bezos’ Amazon is in the process of deploying about 3,200 satellites, with more than 300 already in orbit.

Eutelsat OneWeb, backed by Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Group and the French government, has around 654 satellites operational.

Reliance Jio already has a joint venture with Luxembourg‑based SES, which operates satellites in geostationary and medium Earth orbit, but not in LEO.

The decision to press ahead with its own constellation comes amid growing scrutiny of foreign satellite operators such as Starlink, which have faced questions over national security implications. India’s move to support Jio reflects a broader push for technological self‑reliance, particularly in strategic sectors like space and communications.

Reliance Jio’s planned constellation represents a bold attempt to create an Indian alternative to Starlink and Amazon’s Kuiper, ensuring that India has sovereign control over critical satellite infrastructure.

If successful, the project will not only transform connectivity across the country but also position India as a serious player in the global satellite communications market.

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India Orders ISRO To Launch 200 Satellites Amid Transponder Crisis

India faces a critical satellite shortage, with the Centre directing ISRO to launch at least 200 satellites in the next three years to address a severe transponder deficit and safeguard national digital infrastructure. 

The agency, currently operating only 56 satellites, must scale up operations dramatically while balancing flagship missions and overcoming recent launch failures.

India’s satellite fleet stands at just 56, far below the requirements of its expanding domestic, commercial, and strategic sectors.

The Central Government has issued a strict directive to ISRO to launch at least 200 satellites within three years.

This unprecedented demand comes against the backdrop of ISRO’s modest record of six launches last year and five the year before, highlighting the scale of the challenge.

The directive coincides with ISRO’s already congested schedule. The agency is simultaneously advancing the Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, preparing for future Chandrayaan lunar explorations, and developing an indigenous space station.

These flagship programs demand significant resources and attention, leaving ISRO stretched thin. The situation has been further complicated by the failure of two Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle missions, which disrupted the reliability of its launch calendar.

International demand for India’s commercial launch services continues to rise, adding to the operational bottleneck. To manage this crisis, ISRO is increasingly turning to commercial partnerships.

The agency is outsourcing rocket and satellite manufacturing to private industry, leveraging the capabilities of around 400 domestic start-ups and aerospace firms. Bulk deployments are being planned, with more than 10 satellites targeted per launch. The newly developed Small Satellite Launch Vehicle is expected to play a pivotal role, enabling high-frequency, low-cost launches.

The government’s urgency stems from India’s acute shortage of satellite transponders. At present, the country has access to only 196 transponders. Of these, 126 are leased to government and private entities, 33 are dedicated to public services, and 37 are reserved for military and strategic defence.

This capacity is far below the national requirement of at least 500 transponders. To bridge the gap, India has been forced to lease bandwidth from foreign satellites, incurring significant financial costs and exposing vulnerabilities in strategic autonomy.

The Centre has directed ISRO to deploy at least 300 new transponders as part of the upcoming satellite push. Transponders are vital electronic devices that receive signals from Earth, amplify them, and retransmit them at different frequencies to targeted destinations. Without a substantial increase in transponder capacity, India’s digital infrastructure remains at risk.

Transponder bandwidth underpins everyday systems. It powers television broadcasting, maritime and aviation navigation, air traffic control communications, and national highway toll collection through FASTags. It also supports advanced medical equipment and banking infrastructure, including credit and debit card processing and digital payment gateways. The shortage therefore threatens both civilian convenience and national security.

ISRO Chairman V Narayanan has emphasised that the agency cannot achieve this target alone. He has called for deeper participation from private industry, start-ups, and academia, positioning ISRO as an enabler of the broader ecosystem rather than working in isolation.

India’s space start-up ecosystem has expanded significantly following sectoral reforms, with more than 400 firms now active. Coordinated efforts across ISRO, industry, and research institutions will be essential to meet the government’s directive.

India’s long-term ambitions include building its own 52-ton indigenous space station by 2035. The country has already achieved major milestones such as the Mars Orbiter Mission, Chandrayaan lunar missions, and the Aditya-L1 solar mission.

Commercially, India has transitioned into a global launch hub, including missions carrying large foreign payloads such as a 6,000 kg satellite for an American company using an Indian rocket. These achievements underscore India’s growing role in global space operations, but the immediate challenge of scaling up satellite launches remains formidable.

Agencies

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Army And Airtel Partner To Boost Mobile Connectivity In Arunachal’s West Kameng

The Indian Army and Bharti Airtel have entered into a formal partnership to expand mobile network infrastructure in the remote West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.

This initiative is being positioned as a landmark effort to bridge the digital divide in a frontier region that has remained disconnected for more than a decade.

Defence Spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Mahendra Rawat emphasised in an official communique that the project represents a significant stride in nation-building through military-civil integration.

The collaboration is expected to deliver tangible benefits to local residents by facilitating access to essential services. Improved connectivity will enable smoother implementation of government schemes, enhance opportunities for digital education, and strengthen healthcare delivery systems.

It will also promote financial inclusion by allowing residents to engage with banking and digital payment platforms more effectively. These developments are particularly crucial in high-altitude and difficult-to-reach areas where physical access to services has traditionally been limited.

Beyond civilian benefits, the upgraded network infrastructure carries strategic importance. Seamless communication capabilities will directly support the operational effectiveness of Indian Army troops deployed in forward areas.

Enhanced connectivity will improve logistical coordination, situational awareness, and rapid response mechanisms, thereby strengthening India’s defensive posture in a sensitive border region. The integration of modern communication systems into military operations underscores the dual-use nature of such infrastructure, serving both national security and community development.

The initiative is also expected to stimulate local tourism by making the region more accessible to visitors. Improved mobile coverage will allow tourists to navigate, communicate, and share experiences more easily, thereby boosting the district’s socio-economic prospects.

In turn, this could generate new livelihood opportunities for local communities, ranging from hospitality and transport services to small-scale enterprises catering to visitors.

From a broader perspective, the partnership reflects India’s growing emphasis on leveraging public-private collaboration to address developmental challenges in frontier regions.

It demonstrates how military and corporate entities can work together to deliver infrastructure that is both strategically vital and socially transformative.

The project is therefore not only about connectivity but also about reinforcing the idea of inclusive growth in areas that have long been on the margins of mainstream development.

PTI

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ISRO’s Commercial Arm Resets Satellite Bandwidth Pricing With First Hike In A Decade

NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation, has announced a significant revision in satellite bandwidth pricing.

Effective from 1 April, the rates have been increased by 20%, marking the first adjustment in a decade. The decision reflects a broader reset in how orbital capacity is valued, as demand patterns undergo a notable shift.

The change was formally communicated to customers in a letter dated 18 September, reviewed by Mint. It will directly impact broadcasters, direct-to-home (DTH) platforms, and companies that lease capacity for television distribution.

Other affected sectors include connectivity providers for ATMs and remote areas, maritime operators, defence projects, and enterprise communication networks. These industries rely heavily on satellite bandwidth to maintain operations across dispersed and often inaccessible regions.

The revision comes at a time when traditional DTH usage is weakening, reducing its dominance in the satellite bandwidth market. In contrast, new sectors such as aviation, maritime, and defence are increasingly competing for capacity, driving demand in directions that were less prominent a decade ago.

This shift has prompted NSIL to undertake a long-delayed correction in pricing, aligning costs with the realities of a more diversified and competitive market.

The move signals a strategic recalibration in India’s satellite services sector, acknowledging that orbital capacity is a scarce resource. By raising prices, NSIL aims to balance declining demand in legacy applications with rising requirements in emerging fields, ensuring that bandwidth allocation reflects both market value and operational necessity.

Agencies

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Inbound Aerospace And IDDK Forge Partnership To Deliver Microgravity Experiments And In-Space Manufacturing

Chennai-based Inbound Aerospace has entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding with Japan’s IDDK Co., Ltd. to advance microgravity experiments and in-space manufacturing.

The collaboration is centred on utilising Inbound Aerospace’s autonomous, reusable spacecraft to host IDDK’s Micro Bio Space LAB, a palm-sized automated research module, for efficient and long-duration studies in Low Earth Orbit.

The partnership is designed to provide “microgravity as a service” for pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and advanced material research. By deploying unmanned, recoverable spacecraft, the two companies aim to create a reliable platform for experiments that require extended exposure to microgravity conditions.

This approach is intended to reduce costs and increase accessibility compared to traditional space-based research.

At the core of the collaboration is IDDK’s compact MBS-LAB, which will be integrated with Inbound Aerospace’s autonomous re-entry platforms. This integration is expected to enable streamlined operations, from launch to recovery, while maintaining the integrity of sensitive scientific experiments. 

The agreement also encompasses the development of dedicated spacecraft, mission operations, and ground support infrastructure to ensure seamless execution.

A key objective of the partnership is to provide a cost-effective alternative to the International Space Station, which has long been the primary venue for microgravity research but is approaching retirement. By offering a new platform for experimentation, Inbound Aerospace and IDDK seek to fill the impending gap and sustain global research momentum in space-based sciences.

Inbound Aerospace, an IIT-Madras-incubated start-up, has already demonstrated its ambition by securing $1 million in funding in 2025. The company is targeting its first re-entry mission by late 2027 or early 2028, according to its official communications.

This timeline underscores its commitment to developing indigenous capabilities that can support both domestic and international research initiatives.

The collaboration between Inbound Aerospace and IDDK represents a significant step towards democratising access to microgravity environments.

By combining advanced Japanese laboratory technology with Indian spacecraft innovation, the partnership aims to accelerate breakthroughs in drug development, biotechnology, and materials science.

Ultimately, this agreement highlights the growing role of private aerospace ventures in shaping the future of space research. With the ISS nearing the end of its operational life, initiatives such as this are poised to redefine how humanity conducts experiments in orbit, ensuring continuity and expanding opportunities for scientific discovery.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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