Skyroot Aerospace: Pioneering Reusable Rockets in India's Space Race

In the bustling aerospace hubs of Hyderabad, Skyroot Aerospace stands as a beacon of India's private space ambitions. Founded in 2018 by former ISRO engineers Pawan Kumar Chandana and Naga Bharath Daka, the startup has scaled rapidly, expanding its workforce to over 1,000 employees by early 2026. Their flagship Vikram-1 rocket, set for its maiden orbital flight this year, promises cost-effective launches at under $5 million per mission—half the global average.

Skyroot's innovation lies in reusable technology, drawing from ISRO's legacy while incorporating 3D-printed engines and cryogenic propulsion. In 2025, they secured $50 million in Series C funding from investors like Peak XV Partners, fueling R&D for Vikram-2, a heavier-lift vehicle. This aligns with India's space economy goal of $44 billion by 2033, as per the Indian Space Association (ISpA). Challenges include regulatory hurdles and supply chain dependencies on imported components, but Skyroot's partnerships with global firms like Boeing mitigate these.

As India eyes 30% of the global small satellite launch market, Skyroot's success could democratize space access for startups in Earth observation and communications. For entrepreneurs aged 22-35, this exemplifies how deep-tech ventures can disrupt monopolies, creating jobs in engineering and AI-driven mission control. Skyroot isn't just launching rockets; it's propelling India's narrative from space follower to leader.

credit: https://www.skyroot.in/