Abyom’s dual-use space technologies have defence applications as well

New Delhi: Hyderabad-based New Space Startup Abyom SpaceTech Private Limited celebrated its fifth foundation day recently, and is pioneering the development of reusable launch vehicles, starting with sounding rockets. The Chair of Abyom’s Technical Advisory Board is VK Saraswat, former Director General of DRDO, former Advisor to the Indian Minister of Defence, and currently a member of NITI Aayog. Abyom has developed a number of confidential proprietary technologies. For testing its rockets, Abyom has developed a first-of-its-kind modular and mobile test infrastructure, that is available as a service. This test facility is designed for civilian rocket development as well as defence propulsion research, catering to academia and upcoming propulsion groups.

Abyom’s technologies are developed with such dual-use in mind, serving commercial spaceflight and defence applications at the same time. The Engine Control System (ECS) is a modular platform that can be used in rockets, missiles and advanced propulsion systems. The difference between rockets and missions is that the former have scientific payloads while the latter carry warheads or submunitions. The Spark Torch Ignition System is a highly reliable igniter that is suitable for reusable space engines, as well as defence-grade propulsion units. The technology developed by Abyom is adaptable across domains, enabling democratic access to space while bolstering national defence capabilities at the same time.

Abyom is developing scalable, defence-ready technology

Abyom is on track to demonstrate a vertical takeoff vertical landing (VTVL) prototype next year, paving the way for reusable rockets. Founder and CEO of Abyom, Jainul Abedin says, “With these technologies, we aim to cut per-launch costs significantly and introduce India’s first VTVL demonstrator. This is our leap toward affordable, reusable, and sustainable space access. At Abyom, we believe reusability is not just a choice – it is the future of space exploration. Our innovations are designed with both commercial scalability and defence readiness in mind, ensuring India is equipped to lead in a rapidly evolving global space economy.”