India and Russia are poised to significantly deepen their collaboration in space exploration, highlighted by an agreement for India to acquire advanced rocket engine technology from Russia. This development coincides with Russian President Vladimir Putin's two-day state visit to India, hosted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
A key aspect of this enhanced partnership is the likely procurement of Russian RD-191 semi-cryogenic engines by India. Furthermore, Moscow has agreed to a complete transfer of technology for its RD-191M semi-cryogenic rocket engine to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This transfer will empower India to indigenously manufacture these sophisticated engines, marking a significant stride towards self-reliance in space technology.
The RD-191M engine is a high-performance semi-cryogenic engine that uses liquid oxygen and refined kerosene (RP-1) as fuel. A single RD-191M engine can generate approximately 192 tons of thrust. These engines are currently used in Russia's Angara series of rockets. The acquisition of this technology is expected to significantly enhance the lifting capability of India's Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3), also known as GSLV Mk3. The LVM3 is India's heavy-lift launch vehicle, and the integration of the RD-191M engine could increase its payload capacity from 4.2 tons to nearly 7 tons for Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) missions.
The enhanced payload capacity will enable ISRO to launch heavier communication satellites and undertake more ambitious interplanetary missions. ISRO can use the Russian 'RD-191' engine and systems to replace the existing L110, which is the second stage of the three-stage LVM3 rocket, to enhance the lifting power of its spacefaring rockets. Moreover, a more powerful C32 Cryogenic upper stage developed by ISRO could further bolster the LVM3's lifting power. This would allow ISRO to launch satellites heavier than 4,000 kg from Indian soil, reducing dependence on foreign rockets.
Dmitry Bakanov, Director General of Roscosmos, stated that Russia is preparing to announce "good news about space sector cooperation with India," including rocket engines, human spaceflight, and the development of national space stations. He also mentioned the substantive interest in manned space programs, including building national stations such as the Russian space station and India's Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS), along with other elements like portholes, spacesuits, and cosmonaut seats.
The technology transfer is expected to commence around 2026-2027, with ISRO aiming to have a fully realized semi-cryogenic engine ready by 2030. This collaboration aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative, fostering domestic manufacturing and potentially positioning India as a competitive player in the global commercial space launch market.
This strengthened partnership between India and Russia in space underscores their long-standing strategic ties and their commitment to advancing space exploration for peaceful purposes.
