BEL, Bellatrix ink pact to develop very low Earth orbit satellite systems | India News
BENGALURU: State-run defense electronics major Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has signed an MoU with space technology startup Bellatrix Aerospace to jointly design, develop and manufacture satellite systems and payloads, focusing on the emerging Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) regime.“The agreement aims to combine BEL’s experience in mission-critical electronics and defense payloads with BEL’s experience in satellite propulsion and subsystems to develop a next-generation satellite platform suitable for VLEO operations,” BEL said on Thursday.VLEO refers to orbital altitudes below conventional low Earth orbit, typically about 150 km to 450 km above Earth. Satellites operating in these regions can offer high-resolution imaging, low communication latency and low launch costs, but require advanced propulsion systems to cope with atmospheric drag.Under the partnership, the two companies plan to develop integrated satellite solutions that can support both strategic and civilian space missions. This collaboration is expected to strengthen indigenous capabilities in satellite platforms designed for VLEO operations.BEL said the tie-up reflects a broader effort to combine the manufacturing depth of established public sector firms with the agility and innovation of emerging deep-tech startups in the aerospace sector.“BEL has decades of experience in developing advanced electronics, radar and communication systems for defense and strategic programmes. Bellatrix Aerospace, headquartered in Bengaluru, specializes in electric and green propulsion systems for satellites,” BEL said.Memorandum of Understanding was exchanged between BEL General Manager Rashmi Kathuria and Bellatrix Aerospace CEO and Chief Technology Officer Rohan M Ganapathy.Representatives of both organizations said the partnership is expected to accelerate innovation and help develop indigenous satellite systems for next-generation space missions.
