GSLV-F18 Mission Targeted for October 15–20, 2026; NVS-03 Launch Campaign Underway

The GSLV-F18 mission which carries the NVS-03 navigation satellite is currently targeted for launch between October 15 and 20, 2026, after undergoing integration and checkout activities at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

The launch campaign kicked-off on September 14, with the first-stage stacking of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mk II as part of the mission preparations.

Further integration, testing and checkout activities are now being carried out ahead of the planned launch window. The final launch date will be determined based on the completion of mission readiness activities as well as other operational considerations.

The mission will use India’s GSLV Mk II, a three-stage launch vehicle, which is capable of placing satellites into geosynchronous transfer orbit. It uses a solid-fuelled first stage, liquid-fuelled second stage and a cryogenic upper stage.

NVS-03 is part of India’s second-generation navigation satellite series which are associated with the NavIC regional navigation system. The NVS series is designed to enhance and expand India’s satellite-navigation capabilities, as well as provide navigation and timing services to users.

The upcoming mission is therefore significant for the continuous deployment and replenishment of India’s navigation satellite constellation.

With the launch campaign now underway at Sriharikota, attention will shift to the remaining integration, checkout and pre-launch activities before the rocket is cleared for flight.