“The next step is to consistently reach orbit… and then move toward commercialisation,” Chandana shared with CNBC-TV18 after the successful Vikram-1 mission. “Our primary focus is on building more rockets, launching them reliably, and positioning ourselves as a globally trusted launch provider.”
Skyroot intends to utilize this year and the next to enhance production at its newly launched Infinity Campus. While the facility is already set up to produce one rocket monthly, Chandana mentioned that the company is still striving to achieve that production level. He anticipates that the successful Vikram-1 mission will expedite manufacturing, as many of the rocket’s systems have now been tested in flight.
The firm is also developing Vikram-2, an advanced launch vehicle capable of carrying approximately one tonne of payload to orbit—about three times the capacity of Vikram-1. Chandana stated that the target is to launch Vikram-2 by the close of 2027.
Although Skyroot has become the first private entity in India to successfully send a rocket into orbit, it is not hurrying towards an initial public offering (IPO). Chandana emphasized that the immediate focus is on scaling the business and proving its reliability in launches before contemplating a stock market listing.
“Currently, our primary focus is to build more rockets and launch them reliably…” he remarked, adding that commercialisation must precede any IPO strategies.
The CEO also characterized the Vikram-1 mission as a rare global feat. In his view, very few private space firms without prior launch experience have managed to reach orbit on their inaugural attempt.
“We successfully launched India’s first privately developed rocket to orbit on our very first try,” Chandana expressed. “It still feels surreal to me.”
This launch also signifies a major milestone for India’s private space sector. Chandana noted that the country is now only the third worldwide where a private company has successfully launched satellites into orbit. He believes this accomplishment underscores the swift advancement of India’s space ecosystem since the industry opened up to private enterprises just a few years ago.
Watch the full conversation here
Skyroot credits its cost efficiency to India’s well-established space ecosystem, a domestic supply chain comprising over 400 companies, and the adoption of technologies such as 3D-printed engines and lightweight carbon-composite materials. Chandana stated that the company’s approach has always been to merge frugal engineering with uncompromising accuracy.
He also dismissed concerns regarding an exodus of scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), asserting that the numbers remain minimal relative to the organization’s workforce and that the transition between public and private sectors is beneficial for the nation’s evolving space industry.
