Hex20 Space Technologies India Limited based out of Kerala and Skyroot Aerospace have entered into a multi-launch agreement for launching payloads from HEX20 into low earth orbits via Vikram launch vehicles.
This is in connection with the recent launch of the Vikram-1 on 18 July 2026, where Skyroot has become the first private sector Indian company to launch an orbital launch vehicle in space. The mission carried customer payloads into low earth orbit with a height of 450km.
As per the multi-launch agreement, the three launches will facilitate Earth Observation Satellite Constellation Program and In-orbit Payload Demonstration Program of HEX20. There are also opportunities for carrying third-party payloads through rideshare opportunities.
The multi-launch agreement will commence in Q4 2027, and it is also a part of Skyroot’s first launch services agreement following Vikram-1 orbital mission.
Commercial launch pipeline gets a boost:
This deal presents an additional opportunity for Skyroot to showcase the commercial capability of its Vikram rockets while helping HEX20 accomplish its satellite plans.
Dedicated access to the launch service provider can be an avenue for HEX20 to launch its Earth observation and technology demonstration satellites. The incorporation of rideshare capability may also permit other spacecraft operators to launch payloads at shared cost through these missions.
Founded in 2018 by former ISRO engineers, Skyroot is working on Vikram rockets designed to provide launch services for small satellites. Its Vikram-1 rocket is capable of launching payloads to low-Earth orbit and features various propulsion systems, one of which is a restartable liquid-powered upper stage rocket that deploys payloads into desired orbits.
In signing the three-mission deal, the Indian private space industry has shifted from technological demonstration phase to commercial launches. This has come at a time when India’s space industry was made open for private investments in 2020.
Repeat orders for launches following the company’s first orbital flight become an early customer base for the Vikram launch system for Skyroot. Another factor that reflects increased demand for launches by India’s space sector is the HEX20 deal made by Skyroot.
