RAS question
GSAT-7R (CMS-03), launched by ISRO in November 2025 aboard the LVM3-M5 rocket, is dedicated to which Indian defence service?
Correct answer: (A) Indian Navy.
GSAT-7R, also called CMS-03, is dedicated to the Indian Navy as a space-based communication satellite.
Explanation
PIB identifies GSAT-7R (CMS-03) as the Indian Navy's communication satellite, and that is why Indian Navy is the answer. ISRO launched it from Sriharikota aboard LVM3-M5 in November 2025, making it India's heaviest communication satellite at 4,410 kg and a replacement for GSAT-7. Its purpose is not generic satellite communication: it is meant to strengthen naval space-based communications and maritime domain awareness. PIB says it provides robust telecommunication coverage across the Indian Ocean Region, with transponders supporting voice, data and video links. Its user network comprises ships, submarines, aircraft and Maritime Operations Centres of the Indian Navy.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Indian Air Force is wrong because PIB identifies GSAT-7R as the Indian Navy's satellite; aircraft are part of the Navy's maritime communication links.
- (C) Indian Army is wrong because the described communication chain is between ships, submarines, aircraft and Maritime Operations Centres, which points to naval operations rather than Army use.
- (D) Coast Guard is wrong because PIB ties the satellite's operational requirements and Maritime Operations Centres specifically to the Indian Navy.
Concept
This tests defence applications of ISRO communication satellites: match the mission name to the service it supports and the operational purpose it serves. It recurs in RAS because Science & Technology questions often ask applied space technology through defence and security use-cases.