Pixxel, a Space startup located in Bengaluru, announced that it has secured a government grant to manufacture multi-payload satellites for the Indian Air Force. The Ministry of Defence’s (MoD) Innovations awarded the substantial grant of multi-crores rupees.
As a result of this funding, Pixxel will be tasked with creating compact satellites weighing up to 150 kilograms.
Pixxel has secured this multi-crore grant for the DefSpace challenge under iDEX Prime (Space). This grant aims to support the manufacturing of miniaturized multi-payload satellites for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Furthermore, the funding was received as part of the SPARK grants by iDEX. The SPARK grants back innovation and empowers Indian entrepreneurs through MoD’s initiatives.
With this significant financial support, the space agency can develop satellites specifically designed for electro-optical, infrared, synthetic aperture radar, and hyper-spectral purposes, as stated by the firm.
Pixxel’s Prior expertise will be useful
Pixxel won the grant, standing out among numerous companies. It aims to deliver advanced solutions and drive deep-tech innovations in India. Startups selected through MoD’s initiatives receive these grants.
As a leading innovator in space tech, the firm constructs and launches high-resolution commercial hyperspectral imaging satellites in India. The company intends to manufacture small satellites for the defense sector using its homegrown technology and expertise.
Pixxel focuses on enabling ease of manufacture, low-cost, and simplified launch processes. Moreover, the firm’s reputation for building and deploying cutting-edge made-in-India satellites gives it a significant advantage.
CEO Expressed Commitment
Awais Ahmed, CEO of Pixxel, expressed his delight in receiving the grant. He looks forward to utilizing the firm’s in-house expertise in building microsatellites for their first-time external satellite manufacturing.
Ahmed stated that this recognition showcases the startup’s commitment to advancing space exploration and innovation. He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in the company and conveyed excitement about the upcoming collaboration with the Indian government.
The Planning Officer praised Pixxel
Vivek Virmani, planning officer at the Department of defence production under MoD and COO of iDEX, acknowledged Pixxel’s role in the evolving Indian space industry. He stated that they are evidence of the rapid progress made by private entities in the space sector.
Virmani said,
“The grant is aimed at developing technologies addressing every stage of a space mission,”
He mentioned that it includes mission planning, manufacturing, and satellite data analytics.
Virmani also expressed confidence in their satellite manufacturing capabilities. He emphasized the significance of partnerships in advancing the use of satellite technology for the country.
Indian Army is strengthening its satellite inventory
In March, the defence ministry signed a ₹3,000-crore contract with NSIL, the commercial arm of ISRO. The contract is for an advanced communication satellite, GSAT 7B, to enhance the Indian Army’s communication capability.
Officials familiar with the latter revealed that the satellite will fulfil a long-standing need of the army. The agreement represents a major boost for the army’s communication capabilities.
Unlike the Indian Air Force and the Navy, the army currently lacks a dedicated satellite. The defence ministry stated that the new satellite will significantly enhance the army’s communication capability.
The satellite will offer essential communication to troops, formations, and weapon & airborne platforms beyond the line of sight. This development marks a substantial improvement in the army’s communication infrastructure.
ISRO will develop the five-tonne geostationary satellite domestically. Officials anticipate the army to receive the satellite in 2026.
The advanced security features of the satellite will support tactical communication needs for troops on the ground and various mission-critical platforms. This includes remotely piloted aircraft, air defence weapons, and fire support platforms.
In March 2022, India’s defence acquisition council (DAC) approved the army’s proposal for a GSAT-7B satellite. The clearance aimed to enhance the army’s operational capabilities.
GSAT-7 Series
The GSAT-7 series, developed by ISRO, offers advanced communication capabilities, covering vast expanses, including oceans. These satellites are designed to provide communication services to users across long distances.
Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd), director general of the Centre for Air Power Studies, highlighted the long-standing need for a dedicated satellite for the army.
He emphasized that this satellite will enhance the army’s network-centric warfare capabilities, ensuring enhanced security and resistance against jamming. Previously, the army relied on the air force’s GSAT-7A satellite. The army conducted a detailed study of cyber and electromagnetic warfare during the Russia-Ukraine war.
The study established the effectiveness of a reliable satellite communication system. The system will provide high-speed internet services to remote areas. The new satellite will undoubtedly address crucial communication challenges faced by the army.
