Industry Stalwarts Rally Behind WOWSemi To Build India’s Semiconductor Talent Ecosystem

On Teachers’ Day, an occasion that celebrates the power of education and mentorship, industry leaders and semiconductor experts came together to extend strong support to WOWSemi Foundation’s vision of building a skilled, industry-ready semiconductor workforce for India.

Industry Stalwarts including PVG Menon, Suraj Rengarajan, Hanish Kumar, Arvind Ragunathan, Venkatesh Kumar Pandurengan and several other industry leaders and experts appreciated the initiative, recognising its potential to bridge one of the biggest challenges facing India’s semiconductor ambitions—the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry experience.

“India’s semiconductor opportunity is not just about building fabs; it is about building the people who will run them, innovate in them and take the ecosystem forward. The time to act is now,” said Venkatesh Pandurengan, emphasising the importance of creating meaningful industry exposure for young talent.

The message resonated strongly with the spirit of Teachers’ Day. As India rapidly expands its semiconductor design and manufacturing capabilities, educators and industry must work together to prepare the next generation for a sector expected to play a significant role in the country’s economic growth.

WOWSemi’s philosophy—“Experience Before Expertise”—addresses this need by taking semiconductor learning beyond textbooks. Through initiatives such as Fab On Wheels, WOW Academy, WOW Semuseum, WOW Bot, Semipreneur and Green Fab City, students and aspiring engineers can gain exposure to wafers, semiconductor packages, equipment, manufacturing processes, virtual fabs, AI-enabled learning and industry-relevant skills.

The initiative has received appreciation from industry leaders who believe that India cannot afford to create another generation of engineers who understand semiconductor theory but have never experienced the environment of a fab.

“India has the infrastructure ambition, the talent and the market. What we need now is a connected ecosystem where industry, academia and young minds work together,” was the collective sentiment expressed by participating leaders.

WOWSemi aims to reach 5 lakh citizens across 11 states, 60 districts and 3,000 institutions by 2031, with 1 lakh certifications, creating a broad-based talent pipeline for India’s semiconductor future.

The larger message emerging from the gathering was clear: It is now or never to build a complete semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.

The chip may be tiny, but its impact on India’s economy could be enormous. Building that future will require more than technology—it will require experience, skills, collaboration and a generation prepared to lead.

WOWSemi Press Release

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India Cracks Indigenous GaN Chip Technology To Power Next-Gen Radars And Electronic Warfare: Defence Ministry Report

India’s DRDO has achieved a landmark breakthrough in semiconductor technology, successfully fabricating indigenous Gallium Nitride (GaN) chips and Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) for radar and electronic warfare systems. A single chip measuring just 3.5 x 3 mm delivers 30 watts of power at speeds 300 times faster than silicon, marking a decisive leap in India’s defence self-reliance.

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation has confirmed the successful development and demonstration of indigenous GaN semiconductor technology for high-frequency military applications.

The Ministry of Defence report highlights the fabrication of X-band MMICs, alongside S-band GaN High Electron-Mobility Transistor power amplifiers, low-noise amplifiers, and switch MMICs.

These components are vital for generating, amplifying, receiving, and controlling high-frequency signals across radar, electronic warfare, communications, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and unmanned systems.

The indigenous GaN chip is remarkably compact yet powerful. Measuring only 3.5 x 3 mm, it can deliver up to 30 watts of output while operating at speeds 300 times faster than conventional silicon-based chips. This performance underscores the scale of advancement in India’s domestic semiconductor capability, enabling radar and combat systems to achieve greater efficiency, range, and resilience.

The Solid State Physics Laboratory, a specialised DRDO facility, has been central to this achievement. SSPL scientists developed indigenous processes to grow and manufacture 4-inch Silicon Carbide wafers, which serve as the foundation for fabricating GaN HEMTs capable of delivering up to 150 watts.

MMICs reaching 40 watts for X-band applications have also been demonstrated. Limited production capability for GaN-on-SiC MMICs has been established at GAETEC in Hyderabad, ensuring that India can scale up production for strategic requirements.

The Ministry of Defence has emphasised that GaN and SiC-based technology offers improved efficiency, reduced size, and lower weight, making it indispensable for future combat systems. GaN-based power amplifiers form the backbone of transceiver modules in Active Electronically Scanned Array radars and electronic warfare jamming pods. These multifunctional MMICs also extend beyond defence, with applications in strategic systems, space, aerospace, 5G, and satellite communications.

This breakthrough is part of India’s broader push for Aatmanirbhar Bharat in semiconductors. The Ministry has described the development of commercially viable SiC and GaN-based MMIC technology as a milestone in building domestic capability and export potential.

To accelerate this ecosystem, the government has engaged the private sector. A landmark contract was signed with Agnit Semiconductors Private Limited under the Innovations for Defence Excellence initiative to design and manufacture advanced GaN wireless transmitters for defence use. This partnership reflects the growing role of Indian Start-Ups and private firms in strengthening the country’s defence technology base.

The strategic implications are profound. Indigenous GaN technology will allow India to upgrade radar systems, enhance electronic warfare capabilities, and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.

It positions India among the select nations capable of producing advanced semiconductor technology for military applications, bolstering deterrence and operational readiness while opening pathways for commercial and strategic exports.

ANI

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India Strengthens Defence And Semiconductor Ties With Malaysia And Others On BRICS Sidelines

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s bilateral meetings with the leaders of Ethiopia and Malaysia on the sidelines of the 18th Brics Summit have provided India with a fresh strategic and economic impetus. 

The discussions spanned defence cooperation, procurement, investment, mining and semiconductors, according to Government of India sources.

The meetings underscored New Delhi’s intent to expand partnerships with Africa and Southeast Asia. Both Ethiopia and Malaysia expressed interest in elevating their defence cooperation with India. 

Defence was a central theme, with talks covering joint personnel training and the possibility of procurement from India. This aligns with India’s broader push to expand defence exports and strengthen military partnerships through training, capacity building and equipment supplies.

The two countries also conveyed their willingness to encourage greater participation by Indian companies and investors in their economies. This is expected to open new opportunities for Indian industry as New Delhi deepens economic partnerships alongside its growing strategic engagement.

In the meeting with Ethiopia, the African nation specifically welcomed Indian mining companies. This signals scope for increased Indian participation in Ethiopia’s mining and mineral sectors.

The focus on mining comes against the backdrop of India’s interest in securing reliable access to critical minerals and strengthening commercial engagement with resource-rich African economies. Greater participation by Indian companies could expand bilateral economic ties beyond traditional areas of cooperation.

Defence also emerged as another important area in the India-Ethiopia discussions. Ethiopia showed keenness for stronger cooperation with India, including joint personnel training and defence procurement. This reflects Addis Ababa’s interest in diversifying its defence partnerships and India’s readiness to support capacity building in friendly nations.

The engagement with Malaysia placed particular emphasis on semiconductor opportunities. This reflects the growing importance of the sector in India-Malaysia economic relations.

India has been seeking to build partnerships across the global semiconductor supply chain, while Malaysia has emerged as a key player in assembly, testing and packaging. Discussions on opportunities in this sector could create avenues for greater cooperation between Indian and Malaysian companies.

Malaysia also expressed interest in strengthening defence cooperation with India, including personnel training and procurement. This mirrors the Ethiopian engagement and highlights the widening scope of India’s bilateral defence ties with emerging economies.

The discussions with both countries reflect India’s effort to move beyond traditional diplomatic and trade ties. The focus is now on defence manufacturing, strategic minerals, technology and industrial investment.

For New Delhi, these twin engagements reinforce its broader effort to build stronger partnerships with emerging economies while creating new opportunities for Indian businesses in strategically important sectors.

India’s outreach to Ethiopia and Malaysia on the Brics sidelines also complements its wider engagement with Africa and Southeast Asia. It demonstrates New Delhi’s intent to integrate defence, technology and investment into its foreign policy priorities, while positioning Indian companies to benefit from new opportunities in mining and semiconductors.

Agencies

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Agnikul Cosmos Opens Chennai Hubs To Power India’s Reusable Rocket Ambitions

Indian start-up Agnikul Cosmos has taken a significant step towards reusable launch vehicle technology by inaugurating two new assembly and testing hubs in Chennai, according to a report by Times of India.

The unveiling of the Stage Testing & Inspection Facility (STIF) and the Pressurant Tank Realisation, Over-wrapping and Outfitting Facility (PROOF) marks a major milestone in India’s private space sector.

The facilities were inaugurated in the presence of Group Captain and Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla, underscoring the importance of this development for India’s space ambitions.

STIF is a fully in-house facility designed to test reusable rocket stages under flight-like operating conditions.

It supports thrust levels ranging from 1 kN to 200 kN, LOX sub-cooling down to 73 K, and full-duration burns of up to 150 seconds. Beyond initial testing, STIF will also be used for post-flight inspection and requalification of recovered stages, ensuring they are fit for subsequent missions. This capability is crucial for Agnikul’s Mission-02, which aims to demonstrate India’s first orbital-class booster recovery.

PROOF complements STIF by enabling in-house manufacturing of pressure vessels, critical components that store gases or liquids at pressures significantly different from the external environment. 

The facility can produce more than 10 vessels per month, including those with capacities up to 3,500 litres and pressure ratings of 350 bar. This manufacturing capability strengthens Agnikul’s vertical integration strategy, reducing reliance on external suppliers and enhancing quality control.

Srinath Ravichandran, co-founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos, emphasised that reusability requires a holistic approach beyond a single flight. He explained that STIF provides the ability to test complete stages for their mission duration and requalify recovered stages, a capability that is essential for achieving rapid reuse.

He highlighted that this infrastructure is a cornerstone of Agnikul’s vision for Mission-02 and future reusable launch systems.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla noted that India’s space program is entering an exciting phase, with advanced capabilities being developed across the country.

He praised Agnikul’s expansion in manufacturing and testing, describing it as a positive sign for India’s increasingly ambitious missions. His presence at the inauguration added symbolic weight to the event, linking India’s astronaut corps with private sector innovation.

Headquartered in Chennai and incubated at IIT-Madras, Agnikul Cosmos is developing the Agnibaan family of configurable small-lift launch vehicles. In May 2024, the company successfully conducted Mission-01, Agnibaan SOrTeD, from its privately built launchpad at Sriharikota.

This mission demonstrated the viability of private launch infrastructure in India and set the stage for more ambitious projects.

Agnikul already designs and manufactures its single-piece, 3D-printed semi-cryogenic engines in-house. It also develops avionics, propulsion systems, and other vehicle technologies internally, reinforcing its reputation as a vertically integrated space start-up.

The addition of STIF and PROOF further consolidates its position as a pioneer in India’s private space sector, capable of handling the entire lifecycle of reusable rocket stages.

Globally, reusable launch technology has transformed the economics of spaceflight. SpaceX has demonstrated the viability of reusing boosters, with some flown more than 35 times, while China recently achieved its first orbital booster recovery.

Agnikul’s new facilities position India to join this elite group, potentially reducing launch costs by up to 80% and enabling more frequent missions. This development aligns with India’s broader ambition to expand its role in global space transportation, commercial satellite launches, and future lunar exploration.

Agnikul’s progress reflects the growing momentum of India’s private space industry, which is increasingly complementing ISRO’s efforts.

With Skyroot Aerospace preparing for its maiden orbital flight and Agnikul advancing reusable technology, India’s private sector is emerging as a critical driver of innovation.

The establishment of STIF and PROOF demonstrates that Indian companies are not only participating in the global race for reusability but are building the infrastructure necessary to sustain it.

Agencies

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US Envoy Gor Launches Trust Fellowship In Bangalore As India-US Partnership Marks 250 Years of American Freedom

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor underscored the expanding scope of the India-US partnership during a major event in Bangalore marking 250 years of American freedom.

He emphasised that the relationship was being advanced through practical initiatives across trade, defence, aerospace, pharmaceuticals and space, while stressing that his mission was to deliver tangible outcomes rather than dwell on history.

Gor said the occasion was an opportunity to celebrate America’s journey but noted that President Donald Trump had tasked him with focusing on results. He remarked that Bangalore was the perfect setting for such discussions given its reputation for innovation, entrepreneurship and rapid execution. 

He added that the spirit of building and delivering was central to both the city and the current administration’s approach to bilateral ties.

Highlighting the importance of identifying areas of mutual benefit, Gor stated that every week the embassy sought examples of win-win opportunities for both nations.

He announced the launch of the TRUST Fellowship, a new collaboration between American and Indian researchers aimed at advancing technologies such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum computing and biotechnology. He described these fields as defining the century ahead.

The envoy pointed to the scale of cooperation already underway, noting that India conducts more military exercises with the United States than with any other country. He said the partnership extended across sectors including bilateral trade, aerospace, defence sales, pharmaceuticals and space, with collaboration at record levels.

In a post on X, Gor added that the event was also an opportunity to underline the broader economic and strategic significance of the relationship, particularly in South India where innovation, investment and critical supply chains were being strengthened.

Karnataka Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who attended the celebration, said Bangalore was playing an increasingly important role in the India-US relationship. He invited American companies, institutions and researchers to deepen their engagement with the state, describing Bangalore as the place where the world meets India.

He said the 250th anniversary of American independence was not only a historical milestone but also a celebration of enduring values such as freedom, democracy and human potential.

Shivakumar noted that while India and the United States have different historical trajectories, their aspirations increasingly converge through collaboration between institutions and people. He highlighted the depth of the American presence in Karnataka, pointing out that the state hosts more than 1,000 American companies and over 80,000 American citizens in Bangalore.

He drew a parallel between Bangalore and Silicon Valley, describing the relationship between the two technology hubs as a vital bridge between the two countries.

He said Bangalore was no longer just a destination for global talent but was increasingly a hub where the technologies of tomorrow were being imagined and built. He cited Karnataka’s efforts to build an ecosystem for emerging technologies, including KWIN City, the Semiconductor Park, the proposed AI Tech Park and AI Hub, as well as India’s first Public Sector AI University. He invited American businesses, institutions, researchers and innovators to expand their presence in Karnataka through initiatives such as Beyond Bangalore.

Shivakumar urged deeper partnerships in AI, semiconductors, aerospace, healthcare, space science, education and advanced manufacturing, combining American strengths, Indian aspirations and Karnataka’s energy to build a better future.

The event, attended by Gor and US Consul General Mariana L. Neisuler, thus combined the celebration of a major American historical milestone with a forward-looking focus on technology, investment, research, supply chains and strategic cooperation.

ANI

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ISRO Successfully Conducts Hot Test of Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article At Full Thrust Level

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) demonstrated successful hot test of the Semi-Cryogenic Engine Power Head Test Article (PHTA) at full thrust level of 200 Ton at the ISRO Propulsion Research Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu on September 05, 2026.

The Power Head Test Article (PHTA) encompasses all engine systems except thrust chamber. This is the 9th test in a series of hot tests using the PHTA. This is the first time that the PHTA is tested at 100% or full thrust level i.e. 200 tons.

Previously, the tests were conducted at 47% (94 tons), 60% (120 tons) and 88% (175 tons) thrust levels successfully.

The test proceeded as predicted and all the engine parameters were as expected. The test duration was 35 seconds including operation of the engine powerhead at 200 ton (100%) thrust level for a duration of 5 seconds.

The switch over of propellant supply from a low pressure start tank to medium pressure run tank was also validated in order to enable long duration testing of PHTA in subsequent hot tests.

The Semi-Cryogenic Propulsion Stage (SC120), powered by the 2000 kN-class SE2000 engine, is being developed to replace the current L110 core stage of the LVM-3 launch vehicle. The integration of the Semi-Cryogenic stage along with the uprated cryogenic upper stage (C32) will enhance the LVM-3 payload capability.

ISRO

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India’s GaN Avengers Aim To Transform Semiconductor Future

Agnit Semiconductors has emerged from the Indian Institute of Science’s Innovation Centre in Bangalore as the country’s first Gallium Nitride-based semiconductor company.

Founded by six scientists with over 120 research papers to their credit, the Start-Up is determined to rebrand India’s semiconductor industry by moving beyond traditional silicon.

Their vision is to build a globally relevant product within five years, specialising in the design and manufacturing of GaN-powered semiconductors.

The lab at IISc is equipped with advanced devices including a thermal chamber, semiconductor characterisation equipment and electrical test instruments.

This infrastructure reflects years of research and experimentation that have now begun to yield tangible results. Agnit’s founders believe India is not far behind in GaN technology and, with the right incentives and policies, can catch up with global leaders.

Countries such as China, the US, Germany and Taiwan are already established players in GaN semiconductors.

However, India’s National Semiconductor Mission 2.0, with an outlay of ₹1,27,500 crores, provides a strong foundation for competition. Hareesh Chandrasekar, Agnit’s CEO, emphasises that government support must go beyond policy to include acting as customers for indigenous technology.

The team, dubbed the “magnificent seven,” includes five professors and two PhD scholars. Their expertise spans semiconductor device physics, photonics, fabrication processes and wide bandgap materials. Chandrasekar himself worked nearly a decade in the US as a silicon chip designer before returning to India to focus on GaN.

His co-founder Digbijoy Neelim Nath specialises in GaN transistors for power switching and radiofrequency applications. Other members include Madhusudan Atre, a theoretical physicist with decades of experience, Mayank Shrivastava from IIT-Bombay, Shankar Kumar Selvaraja from Ghent University, and Srinivasan Raghavan with deep expertise in fabrication. Muralidharan Rangarajan, a pioneer in materials sciences, was also a co-founder before his passing in 2024.

Their collaboration is marked by animated discussions and interdisciplinary synergy. Agnit’s journey began in 2015 with a proposal to the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for a greenfield GaN foundry. In 2017, approvals were granted for a ₹3,000-crore facility to produce GaN chips, complementing IISc’s Centre for Nano Sciences and Engineering.

Gallium Nitride is a wide-bandgap semiconductor capable of operating at higher voltages, temperatures and frequencies than silicon.

Its advantages include reduced energy losses, lower heat generation and resilience under high electric fields. Applications range from fast chargers and electric vehicles to 5G systems and radars.

Defence remains the most strategic sector, with GaN enabling more efficient radars and communication systems. Agnit has already run five pilot projects for government and private strategic customers, with two products designed and manufactured in India.

These are intended for radars, jammers and radios, with hopes of scaling into commercial production.

India remains heavily dependent on imported semiconductors, with 90–95 per cent of requirements sourced from countries like China, South Korea, Taiwan and Singapore.

NITI Aayog’s Trade Watch report highlights the need for deeper integration into global value chains and a shift towards higher value-added activities. Chandrasekar argues that India need not be fully self-reliant but should focus on strategic areas where it can achieve world-class standards.

The founders stress that technology must prove itself beyond the lab by meeting customer demands for quality, timelines and scalability. Agnit’s mission is to answer these challenges and position India firmly on the global GaN map.

Agencies

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Kalpana Orbital Launch Vehicle Announced By STAR To Target Orbit By 2032

Gujarat-based Space Technology and Aeronautical Rocketry (STAR) has unveiled KALPANA, its ambitious next-generation orbital launch vehicle, named in honour of astronaut Kalpana Chawla, with a target to reach orbit by 2032.

This follows the company’s earlier project, KALAM, which is preparing for launch in 2027, marking STAR’s growing role in India’s private space sector.

STAR has announced that KALPANA will be its flagship orbital launch vehicle, designed to strengthen India’s presence in the global space industry. The project is named after Kalpana Chawla, the Indian-born astronaut who became a symbol of inspiration for space exploration.

By setting a target of 2032 for orbital deployment, STAR is positioning itself as a long-term player in India’s expanding private aerospace ecosystem.

The company’s earlier project, KALAM, is scheduled for launch in 2027. This vehicle represents STAR’s first major step into orbital missions and will serve as a precursor to the more advanced KALPANA. The successful deployment of KALAM will provide critical technological validation and operational experience that will feed directly into the development of KALPANA.

KALPANA is expected to incorporate advanced propulsion systems, modular design, and reusable technologies to reduce launch costs and improve efficiency. STAR has indicated that the vehicle will be capable of deploying satellites into multiple orbital regimes, including low Earth orbit and potentially geostationary transfer orbit.

This versatility is intended to make KALPANA competitive with international launch systems.

India’s broader space technology landscape is rapidly evolving, with ISRO collaborating with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to develop indigenous microprocessors such as VIKRAM3201 and KALPANA3201.

These processors are designed to power avionics systems in launch vehicles, reducing reliance on imports and enhancing mission reliability. The synergy between government-backed research and private start-ups like STAR is expected to accelerate India’s self-reliance in space technology.

KALPANA will likely benefit from these indigenous advancements, particularly in avionics and mission-critical electronics.

The integration of processors such as KALPANA3201, a 32-bit SPARC V8 RISC microprocessor tested with flight software, could provide STAR with robust and reliable onboard computing capabilities. This would align with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision of self-reliance in strategic sectors.

The timeline for KALPANA reflects STAR’s cautious but ambitious approach. By targeting 2032, the company allows for extensive testing, regulatory approvals, and phased development. This long horizon also provides room for collaboration with international partners and integration of cutting-edge technologies such as reusable launch systems and green propulsion methods.

The announcement of KALPANA underscores the growing role of private start-ups in India’s space sector. Alongside companies like Skyroot Aerospace and Agnikul Cosmos, STAR is part of a new wave of enterprises that are complementing ISRO’s efforts and expanding India’s footprint in commercial space operations. The success of these ventures will be critical in positioning India as a global space technology powerhouse.

By naming the vehicle after Kalpana Chawla, STAR has also reinforced the inspirational dimension of its mission. The project is not only a technological endeavour but also a tribute to India’s contributions to global space exploration. This symbolic gesture is expected to resonate strongly with the public and the scientific community alike.

Agencies

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Astrobase’s Frugal Innovation Powers Global Space And Defence Ambitions

Astrobase Space Technologies has positioned itself as India’s most ambitious private space player, operating at one‑fifth of the cost structure of US and European competitors while pursuing a propulsion technology stack that is at par or better.

The company’s bold choice of the full‑flow staged combustion (FFSC) cycle, coupled with its expansion into global launch services, space data centres, and defence infrastructure, signals a transformative trajectory.

Astrobase’s cost advantage is striking. Operating at just 20 per cent of Western expenditure, the company has achieved credible milestones in propulsion development without the billions typically required.

Its favourite statement, “Nobody has gotten this far spending so little,” encapsulates the compounding effect of lean innovation. This frugality is not a compromise but a deliberate strategy, enabling rapid iteration and scalability.

The company unveiled its 800 kN‑class FFSC engine, Everest, in August 2026. This engine, powered by liquid oxygen and methane, is designed for reusability and efficiency. Methane’s cleaner combustion reduces soot and thermal stress, making engines suitable for multiple flights.

The FFSC cycle, considered the hardest rocket engine architecture, routes fully gasified propellants through separate turbomachinery before entering the combustion chamber. This allows extreme chamber pressures, higher efficiency, and durability across dozens of launches.

Astrobase’s infrastructure is robust. It operates a 21.5‑acre propulsion test facility in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, capable of handling thrust levels up to 200 tons.

Alongside this, a 46,000 sq ft assembly and integration facility in Bangalore provides end‑to‑end design, manufacturing, and testing. The company plans to manufacture 50 engines annually, with 20 units built ahead of its maiden orbital mission to sustain intensive testing campaigns.

The roadmap is ambitious. An integrated hot‑fire test of Everest is scheduled within months, with the first orbital flight targeted for December 2028. If successful, India would become the third country after the US and China to field an FFSC engine.

Astrobase intends to cluster seven engines under a reusable medium‑lift rocket, carrying payloads of three to ten tonnes. Vehicle configurations include expendable, partly reusable, and fully reusable designs, with autonomous landing and rapid turnaround as core capabilities.

Funding has been secured through a ₹60 crore institutional round in 2025 and support from IN‑SPACe’s Technology Adoption Fund in June 2026. This endorsement, capped at ₹25 crore per project, validates Astrobase’s technical roadmap and ensures accountability through milestone‑linked disbursements. The propulsion team includes engineers with experience in India’s cryogenic programs, reinforcing credibility.

Astrobase’s ambitions extend beyond launch vehicles. The company is targeting the global launch market, space‑based data centres, and defence infrastructure. By solving propulsion first, it has chosen the hardest yet most rewarding foundation for long‑term capability. The FFSC engine is not merely a technical achievement but a strategic commitment to sovereign access to space and competitive global positioning.

The global context underscores the significance. SpaceX’s Raptor remains the only FFSC engine to have flown, and only a handful have ever been tested worldwide. Astrobase’s attempt places India within this elite circle. Its lean cost structure, indigenous infrastructure, and regulatory support combine to create a credible pathway towards orbital readiness and beyond.

The statement “Nobody has gotten this far spending so little” reflects not just cost efficiency but a philosophy of compounding innovation. Each milestone builds upon the last, accelerating progress while conserving resources. This approach could redefine how emerging space nations compete with established players.

Astrobase’s trajectory is therefore both visionary and pragmatic. It is a calculated gamble on the hardest propulsion system, backed by infrastructure, funding, and a clear roadmap.

Success would mark a new era for India’s private space sector, expanding its role in global launch services, strategic data infrastructure, and defence capabilities.

Agencies

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Cosmicport Advances With Cryonix Engine And Mach Blue Rocket Toward Reusable Launch Goals

Cosmicport, based in Thoothukudi in southern Tamil Nadu, is advancing India’s private space ambitions by building reusable small launch vehicles. The company is simultaneously developing two key technologies.

The first is Cryonix, a methane-oxygen cryogenic engine designed to be reused across multiple flights rather than discarded after a single mission. The second is Mach Blue, a small-lift launch vehicle powered by a cluster of nine Cryonix engines, intended to carry satellites to low Earth orbit on both dedicated and shared missions.

In January 2025, Cosmicport completed an early fire test of a sub-scale propulsion system at its own research facility. This marked the beginning of its propulsion development journey. By July 2026, the company achieved a significant milestone by announcing the first cryogenic ignition trial of the Cryonix engine.

This event also marked the start of a structured test campaign, which Cosmicport has named Mission Blue Frost. The ignition trial demonstrated the company’s ability to move from sub-scale testing to full-scale cryogenic operations, a critical step in validating its reusable engine technology.

Cosmicport positions itself as a full-spectrum provider, offering complete packages that encompass both engine development and launch services.

Unlike firms that focus solely on propulsion or launch vehicles, Cosmicport aims to integrate the entire value chain, thereby delivering end-to-end solutions for customers. This approach reflects a broader trend in the global space industry, where vertical integration is seen as a way to reduce costs and improve reliability.

The company has published a detailed roadmap that extends to the end of the decade. According to this plan, the cryogenic engine milestone is set for 2026, followed by a reusability demonstration in 2027. Stage qualification is targeted for 2028, and commercial launches are scheduled for 2029.

The July 2026 ignition trial is therefore a first step toward meeting the 2026 target, keeping the company aligned with the schedule it has set for itself. Each milestone builds upon the previous one, creating a structured pathway toward operational capability.

Cosmicport’s Cryonix engine is particularly notable because it uses methane and liquid oxygen, a propellant combination increasingly recognised worldwide for its suitability in reusable systems. Methane burns cleaner than traditional kerosene-based fuels, reducing soot and thermal stress, which are major challenges in reusability.

This positions Cosmicport alongside global leaders such as SpaceX, which has pioneered methane-oxygen propulsion with its Raptor engines. For India, Cryonix represents a significant step into advanced cryogenic technology, complementing ISRO’s semi-cryogenic and cryogenic efforts while carving out a niche for private enterprise.

The Mach Blue rocket, powered by nine Cryonix engines, is designed to serve the growing demand for small satellite launches. With the proliferation of Earth observation, communication, and scientific payloads, the market for small-lift vehicles is expanding rapidly.

Mach Blue is intended to provide dedicated and rideshare missions, offering flexibility to satellite operators who require cost-effective and timely access to orbit. By focusing on reusability, Cosmicport aims to reduce launch costs significantly, making space access more affordable and routine.

Mission Blue Frost, the ongoing test campaign, is expected to include a series of ignition trials, endurance tests, and integration exercises.

These will validate the Cryonix engine’s performance across multiple cycles, a prerequisite for demonstrating reusability.

The campaign is also a proving ground for the company’s engineering processes, test infrastructure, and operational readiness. Success in this phase will pave the way for the 2027 reusability demonstration, which will be a landmark achievement for India’s private space sector.

Cosmicport’s strategy reflects the Make in India program, emphasising indigenous innovation and manufacturing in high-technology sectors. By developing both engines and launch vehicles domestically, the company strengthens India’s strategic autonomy in space exploration.

Its progress also highlights the growing role of private start-ups in complementing ISRO’s efforts, creating a diversified ecosystem that can compete globally in cost-effective and sustainable launch solutions.

The July 2026 ignition trial is therefore more than a technical milestone. It is a symbolic step that demonstrates the capability of Indian start-ups to innovate in advanced propulsion technologies.

With a clear roadmap, integrated services, and a focus on reusability, Cosmicport is positioning itself as a serious contender in the emerging private launch industry. The journey ahead will involve scaling up testing, proving reliability, and achieving commercial readiness, but the foundation laid by Mission Blue Frost is a strong beginning.

Agencies

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India’s VIHAAN Broadband Chip Secures First-Pass Silicon Milestone, Targets 2027 Production

India has marked a major semiconductor milestone as Chennai-based Aheesa Digital Innovations achieved first-pass silicon success with its VIHAAN broadband chip, built on the indigenous VEGA processor core.

The Ministry of Electronics and IT confirmed that the chip will move towards production tape-out in 2027, strengthening India’s self-reliance in fibre broadband technology.

A tape-out is the final phase of the integrated circuit or semiconductor chip design process. It occurs when the final layout file (usually in GDSII or OASIS format) is sent to a manufacturing foundry to produce the photomasks used for fabrication.

The VIHAAN chip was taped out on Republic Day this year and achieved first-pass silicon success on Independence Day. This symbolic timing underscores its importance as a national achievement in semiconductor design. The chip is a 28-nanometre networking System-on-Chip that integrates compute, broadband access, and system control on a single die.

It is built using the VEGA processor core developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing under the RISC-V architecture. This open-source instruction set architecture allows flexibility, security, and independence from foreign proprietary cores, aligning with India’s strategic goal of technological sovereignty.

The chip is designed specifically for optical fibre access networks. These networks are used by telecom operators to deliver last-mile connectivity to homes and offices, a critical requirement as India expands its digital infrastructure through broadband and 5G services. By deploying VIHAAN, operators can reduce reliance on imported silicon and strengthen domestic supply chains.

The Ministry of Electronics and IT confirmed on 15 August that the chip will now proceed towards production tape-out, targeted for 2027. This step will enable commercial manufacturing and deployment in India’s fibre broadband ecosystem.

The achievement is part of the broader Design Linked Incentive program, which supports Indian start-ups in semiconductor design across applications such as satellite communications, drones, defence systems, automotive electronics, IoT devices, and smart meters.

Aheesa Digital Innovations, a fabless semiconductor start-up headquartered in Chennai, has positioned itself as a key player in broadband networking and security. The company raised approximately ₹40 crore earlier this year from the Tamil Nadu Emerging Sector Seed Fund and private investors. This funding is intended to accelerate product development and support growth in the semiconductor space.

The government has emphasised that semiconductor chip design contributes up to 50 per cent of overall value addition in the semiconductor value chain and accounts for 15–35 per cent of the bill of materials cost of electronic products.

Under the DLI program, chip-design tools have been made available to 455 organisations, including 350 academic institutions and 105 start-ups, to foster innovation and workforce development. Additionally, under the Chips to Start-up program, 245 chip designs have been taped out by 71 academic institutions.

The VIHAAN chip represents not only a technological breakthrough but also a strategic milestone in India’s semiconductor journey. It strengthens the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by reducing dependence on foreign designs and ensuring secure, indigenous solutions for critical broadband infrastructure.

The success of VIHAAN also demonstrates investor confidence in India’s deep-tech ecosystem, with more than $100 million raised cumulatively by DLI-backed firms.

This achievement places Aheesa Digital Innovations among the leading Indian start-ups contributing to the country’s semiconductor roadmap. With production tape-out scheduled for 2027, VIHAAN is expected to play a pivotal role in enabling fibre broadband connectivity across homes and offices, supporting India’s digital transformation and global competitiveness in semiconductor technology.

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India To Add 5–8 Semiconductor Plants In Next 7–8 Years, Says PM Modi From Red Fort

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that India is expected to see between five and eight new semiconductor plants become operational over the next seven to eight years.

He made the statement during his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, linking the expansion of domestic chip manufacturing to the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and the long‑term goal of achieving Viksit Bharat.

PM Modi emphasised that three major semiconductor plants have already started operations and that their output will also be exported.

He underlined the indispensable role of chips in the modern digital world, noting their critical importance across electronic goods, medical equipment and transportation systems.

PM Modi warned that without chips, the world could come to a standstill, reinforcing the urgency of India’s push for self‑reliance in this sector.

The Prime Minister also highlighted India’s economic momentum over the past twelve years. Defence production has increased nearly fourfold, khadi and village industries output has risen nearly fivefold, electronic manufacturing has grown nearly sevenfold, modern railway coach production has expanded 21‑fold, and mobile phone production has surged 33‑fold. Modi said these figures reflected a “new pace” in India’s industrial growth, contrasting it with the earlier attitude of hesitation and slow progress.

He recalled that by 2014 India had been categorised among the world’s “Fragile Five” economies. Since then, he said, the determination and strength of 1.4 billion Indians had propelled the country forward at a faster pace, enabling it to shed that label and emerge as a stronger economy.

Energy security was another major theme in Modi’s address. He announced that India has set a target of 200 GW of nuclear energy and is establishing five new nuclear reactors.

He highlighted that the country had crossed a milestone in fast breeder nuclear technology this year, which he described as a significant step towards self‑reliance in nuclear fuel. Modi also noted that piped gas is now reaching 1.75 crore households, while more than 50 lakh households are covered by solar energy.

He stressed that a country does not always stall due to a lack of resources, but can be held back by limitations in thinking. Expanding the nation’s mindset, he said, allows it to better recognise and harness its own capabilities.

The semiconductor drive and nuclear technology initiatives were presented as part of a wider strategy to reduce dependence on external sources and strengthen domestic capabilities.

The Prime Minister explained that while semiconductors are vital for electronics, medical devices and transport systems, nuclear technology is central to India’s long‑term energy security.

He said India’s progress in digital technology and innovation had already given it global recognition, and the expansion of domestic semiconductor manufacturing would further reinforce this journey towards self‑reliance.

The Prime Minister concluded by linking the broader push across manufacturing, technology and energy to the creation of strong foundations for Atmanirbhar Bharat and ultimately Viksit Bharat, underscoring that India’s transformation is both economic and strategic in nature.

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Bangalore Start-Up Othisis Successfully Hot-Fires Regeneratively Cooled Cryogenic 3D-Printed Rocket Engine For Reusable Launch Program

Bangalore-based Othisis has achieved a major milestone by successfully hot-firing its regeneratively cooled, fully cryogenic, 3D-printed rocket engine delivering 5 kN thrust.

This breakthrough positions the start-up at the forefront of India’s private space sector, with the engine designed to power a reusable vertical take-off and landing rocket for small- to medium-sized satellite launches.

The cryogenic engine runs on liquid oxygen and methane, propellants known for their efficiency and cleaner combustion compared to traditional fuels. The design incorporates regenerative cooling, where propellant flows through channels around the combustion chamber, absorbing heat before injection. 

This prevents thermal damage to the chamber walls and ensures sustained performance during long-duration burns.

The engine was fully 3D-printed at Othisis’s Whitefield facility in Bangalore. Additive manufacturing allowed the integration of complex cooling channels directly into the chamber walls, reducing assembly complexity and improving reliability.

The modular pintle injector architecture enables adaptability, allowing thrust levels to be changed by swapping a single component, making the platform versatile for different mission requirements.

The hot-fire test delivered a nominal thrust of 5 kN at a chamber pressure of 35 bar, with a total impulse of 100 kN·s. The team conducted over 20 test cycles, including three failed ignition attempts, before achieving a successful sustained burn. This rigorous testing validated the robustness of the design and the reliability of the control and data acquisition systems developed in-house.

Building the test facility itself was a remarkable achievement. Othisis established the infrastructure from an empty plot of land in just three months, including the propellant feed system, cryogenic-rated valves, and custom electronics. Water-flow and cold-flow tests preceded ignition, ensuring system integrity before live firing.

The reusable rocket program aims to provide domestic launch options for smallsat and mediumsat customers, reducing reliance on ISRO’s limited slots or foreign providers. By focusing on reusability, Othisis aligns with global industry trends pioneered by companies like SpaceX, aiming to lower launch costs and increase mission frequency.

Cryogenic propulsion offers significant advantages for reusability. Methane and liquid oxygen produce cleaner combustion, reducing soot and thermal stress, which enhances engine longevity. This makes the technology ideal for vertical take-off and landing rockets, where engines must withstand repeated cycles of ignition and shutdown.

India’s private space sector has seen rapid growth, with startups such as Skyroot, Agnikul, and Bellatrix pushing boundaries in propulsion and launch systems.

Othisis’s achievement adds momentum to this ecosystem, positioning Bangalore as a hub of advanced space innovation.

The successful hot-fire test demonstrates that Indian startups can build world-class cryogenic propulsion systems within tight timelines and limited resources.

The upcoming flight of Othisis’s reusable hopper rocket later this year will be a crucial demonstration. If successful, it will validate the company’s technology and open pathways to scaling up for orbital-class vehicles capable of commercial satellite launches and potentially deep-space missions.

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Thrustworks Dynetics Validates India’s First Resonance Ignition System With KeroLOX Hot-Fire Tests

Thrustworks Dynetics has achieved a landmark breakthrough by validating India’s first Resonance Ignition System through three consecutive KeroLOX hot-fire tests, positioning India among only three known entities worldwide to demonstrate this advanced architecture.

This milestone underscores the rapid rise of capital-efficient deep-tech innovation in India’s private space sector.

Thrustworks Dynetics, incubated at SINE-IIT-Bombay and operating from Pune, has successfully executed hot-fire trials that validated its Resonance Ignition System. This system replaces conventional heavy spark plugs and single-use pyrotechnic igniters with an acoustically controlled mechanism.

By leveraging combustion chamber geometry, it generates controlled acoustic shockwaves to initiate ignition. The design is notable for having zero moving parts, being driven entirely by internal propellant pressure, and enabling infinite restarts, even in vacuum conditions.

The tests were conducted using kerosene and liquid oxygen (KeroLOX) propellants at an operating pressure of 5.08 bar.g. This validation demonstrates the robustness of the system and its adaptability to modern propulsion requirements.

Restart capability is critical for orbital manoeuvres, satellite orbit corrections, and extended-duration missions, making this innovation strategically significant.

The ignition system is being integrated into ANYA, Thrustworks’ 3D-printed, 20 kN reusable semi-cryogenic engine platform. ANYA is designed as a modular propulsion unit, enabling rapid prototyping and scalable manufacturing.

Semi-cryogenic Rocket Engine: ANYA

Unlike other launch start-ups that aim to build complete rockets, Thrustworks positions itself as a B2B supplier, offering modular and scalable propulsion subsystems to reduce development timelines for larger launch vehicle manufacturers.

To support this rapid development, Thrustworks has created India’s first Mobile Rocket Engine Test Bed.

This infrastructure allows flexible, instrumented hot-fire campaigns across different sites, enhancing testing efficiency.

The company is also building an Integrated Rocket Facility to centralise design, 3D printing, and qualification under one roof, ensuring streamlined development cycles.

Founded in 2023 with ₹7 crore in seed funding, Thrustworks Dynetics has demonstrated how Indian start-ups can achieve complex hardware innovations at early-stage capital scale.

Globally, resonance-based ignition systems have typically required national space agency support, multi-million euro funding, and long development cycles.

By achieving this milestone independently, Thrustworks has positioned India as a credible player in advanced rocket ignition technologies.

The resonance ignition architecture is technically demanding due to combustion instability risks, geometric precision requirements, and acoustic wave coupling challenges. Its successful validation reflects the increasing capability of Indian start-ups to build advanced aerospace hardware domestically. The system also has potential dual-use applications beyond launch vehicles, including satellite reaction control systems, rocket-assisted take-off systems, and extended-burn propulsion for tactical aerospace platforms.

Thrustworks collaborates with ecosystem stakeholders such as ISRO, IN-SPACe, Bharat Forge, Godrej Aerospace, and INOXCVA. These partnerships are expected to accelerate the company’s progress toward higher Technology Readiness Levels through continued hot-fire validation and integrated engine testing. The milestone strengthens India’s long-term propulsion ecosystem and reduces dependence on foreign technologies.

This achievement marks a structural advancement in indigenous rocket ignition subsystem capability. By validating resonance-based ignition, Thrustworks Dynetics has placed India in an elite global club of propulsion innovators, reinforcing the country’s ambitions to emerge as a leading space power.

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Bharat Forge Commits ₹1,800 Crore Capex To Drive Growth In Aerospace, Defence, Semiconductors And Data Centres

Bharat Forge is committing ₹1,800 crore in capital expenditure across aerospace, defence, semiconductor components, data centres and power systems, while navigating short-term margin pressures.

Vice Chairman Amit Kalyani has confirmed a one-time ₹350 crore charge, revised revenue guidance, and plans to raise ₹2,500 crore to fund future expansion, signalling a bold long-term growth strategy despite global demand slowdown and rising energy costs.

Bharat Forge is currently facing margin pressures due to higher energy costs and a slowdown in global demand. The company has taken a one-time charge of ₹350 crore, which has impacted near-term profitability. Despite this, management remains confident in its long-term trajectory, revising revenue guidance to reflect current market realities while doubling down on strategic investments.

The company has announced an ambitious ₹1,800 crore CAPEX plan. This investment will be spread across aerospace, defence, semiconductor components, data centres and power systems.

The aerospace segment will see significant expansion, with Bharat Forge aiming to strengthen its role in both civil and military aviation supply chains. Defence remains a core pillar, with new projects expected to enhance India’s self-reliance in advanced platforms and systems.

In semiconductors, Bharat Forge is building on its earlier entry into lithography machine components, now scaling up to support India’s semiconductor ecosystem under the India Semiconductor Mission. The company’s push into data centres reflects the growing demand for digital infrastructure, with investments planned in high-capacity server systems and energy-efficient cooling technologies. Power systems will also receive attention, particularly in renewable-linked transmission and advanced turbine components.

To fund this expansion, Bharat Forge plans to raise ₹2,500 crore. This capital will provide flexibility for both organic growth and potential acquisitions, ensuring the company can seize opportunities in emerging sectors. The strategy aligns with India’s broader industrial and technological priorities, positioning Bharat Forge as a key player in aerospace, defence and semiconductor ecosystems.

Vice Chairman Amit Kalyani emphasised that while short-term pressures are real, Bharat Forge’s long-term vision remains intact. The company is balancing immediate challenges with structural investments that will define its future growth. He noted that global defence demand, India’s semiconductor ambitions, and rising digital infrastructure needs all converge to create a unique opportunity for Bharat Forge.

The company’s diversification into data centres and semiconductor components marks a significant evolution from its traditional manufacturing base. By integrating defence, aerospace and digital infrastructure, Bharat Forge is positioning itself as a multi-sector industrial powerhouse. This approach not only mitigates risks from cyclical downturns but also ensures relevance across multiple high-growth domains.

The expansion program will also strengthen Bharat Forge’s export footprint. With nearly 40% of defence sales already going overseas, the company expects new aerospace and semiconductor projects to further boost international revenues. This aligns with its strategy of combining domestic self-reliance with global competitiveness.

Overall, Bharat Forge is navigating short-term headwinds with a decisive long-term investment plan. The ₹1,800 crore capex, coupled with a ₹2,500 crore fundraise, underscores its ambition to be at the forefront of India’s industrial transformation. The company’s ability to balance immediate challenges with structural growth investments highlights its resilience and strategic foresight.

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