BEL signs agreement with Bellatrix to develop extremely low earth orbit satellite system

BENGALURU: State-owned defense electronics major Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has signed an MoU with space technology startup Bellatrix Aerospace to jointly design, develop and manufacture satellite systems and payloads with a focus on the emerging Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) regime.“The agreement aims to combine BEL’s experience in mission-critical electronics and defense payloads with Bellatrix’s expertise in satellite propulsion and subsystems to develop next-generation satellite platforms suitable for VLEO operations,” BEL said on Thursday.VLEO refers to an orbital altitude lower than traditional low Earth orbit, usually between about 150 kilometers and 450 kilometers above the Earth. Satellites operating in the region could provide higher-resolution imaging, lower communications latency and lower launch costs, but would require advanced propulsion systems to combat atmospheric drag.Under the partnership, the two companies plan to develop integrated satellite solutions that can support strategic and civilian space missions. The collaboration is expected to strengthen indigenous capabilities in satellite platforms designed for VLEO operations.BEL said the collaboration reflects a broader effort to combine the manufacturing depth of established public sector companies with the agility and innovation of emerging deep-tech startups in the aerospace sector.“BEL has decades of experience in developing advanced electronics, radar and communication systems for defense and strategic programmes. Headquartered in Bengaluru, Bellatrix Aerospace specializes in electric and green propulsion systems for satellites,” BEL said.The memorandum was exchanged between BEL Managing Director Rashmi Kathuria and Bellatrix Aerospace CEO and Chief Technology Officer Rohan M Ganapathy.Representatives of both organizations said the partnership is expected to accelerate innovation and support the development of indigenous satellite systems tailored for next-generation space missions.