New Delhi: India today added more fire power to its Air Force capabilities as ISRO’s military communication satellite GSAT-7A was successfully launched from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
GSAT-7A is the 35th Indian communication satellite weighing 2,250 kg, the launch of which was widely-awaited for sometime.
- GSAT-7A will enable the Indian Air Force (IAF) interlink its many ground radar stations, airbases and aircrafts.
- It will also help IAF boost their network-dependant warfare capabilities and expand their current operations globally.
- The satellite will give IAF a defining advantage in interlinking, carrying out operations and communications among aircraft as they fly.
- GSAT-7A will be the first satellite built primarily for the IAF.
- According to the Government, the satellite could also be used by the Army and the Navy.
- GSAT-7A is also expected to give a major push for drone operations as it would help the Navy reduce the reliance on on-ground control stations and take satellite-control of military unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV).
- The cost of the satellite is expected to be Rs 6-8 billion.
