August 29, 2025

The SSLV Launch Complex is being established as a dedicated launch complex at Kulasekarapattinam, Tuticorin Dt., Tamil Nadu, in order to meet the growing launch demands of the country, primarily for SSLV launches and for the launch activities of Non-Governmental Enterprises (NGEs). Honourable Prime Minister had earlier laid the foundation stone for the SSLV Launch Complex on February 28, 2024 from Tuticorin. Since then, construction has been progressing for 32 out of the 33 major facilities. On August 27, 2025, Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman, ISRO / Secretary, Department of Space laid the foundation for the Launch Pad at the SSLV Launch Complex (SLC). The SLC consists of stage preparation & vehicle integration buildings, launch pad & rail track systems, range systems, checkout systems, telemetry & tele-command systems, safety & firefighting facilities, and general civic amenities. Major systems including the Mobile Launch Structure (MLS), bogies, platforms, doors, Jet Deflection Duct and vibration isolation systems have been designed by SDSC SHAR. Major range systems such as radars, telecommand, and telemetry are being developed in-house and being realised through industry partnerships, with support from other ISRO centres including VSSC, SAC, ISTRAC and IISU.

On this occasion, the Shri Padmakumar E.S., Director, SDSC- SHAR; Shri Rajarajan A., Director, VSSC; and Shri J. Asir Packiaraj, Director, IPRC were present, along with senior officials of ISRO and State Government Officials.

The Second Launch Complex at this site is targeted for completion by the end of 2026, enabling launches of SSLV as well as rockets from NGEs. The launch of sounding rockets for upper atmospheric studies and demonstration of technologies is targeted to commence from December 2025.