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News:
Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F11) successfully launched the communication satellite GSAT-7A
Important Facts:
About GSLV-F11 and GSAT-7A
- GSAT-7A is the heaviest satellite being launched by GSLV with an indigenously developed cryogenic stage.
- GSLV is ISRO’s fourth generation launch vehicle with three stages. The four liquid strap-ons and a solid rocket motor at the core form the first stage. The second stage is equipped with liquid fuel. The cryogenic upper stage forms the third and final stage of the vehicle.
- GSLV-F11 was the seventh flight carrying indigenously developed cryogenic upper stage.
Significance:
- The satellite is expected to enable the Air force to interlink different ground radar stations, ground airbase and Airborne early warning and control (AWACS) aircraft.
- It will boost the air force’s network-centric warfare capabilities and enhance its global operations. So far, the IAF has been relying on hiring transponders.
- GSAT-7A will also boost drone operations as it will help the force upgrade from existing ground control stations to satellite-control of military UAVs.
- The launch has come at an opportune time as India is in the process of acquiring US armed Predator-B or Sea Guardian drones, which are high-altitude and long endurance satellite-controlled UAVs that can fire at enemy targets from long distances.
