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Skyroot Becomes India’s First Space-Tech Unicorn as Vikram-1 Nears Maiden Orbital Launch

The raise signals growing investor confidence in Indian deeptech.

Overview

  • Skyroot raised about $60 million at a $1.1 billion valuation, becoming India’s first space‑tech unicorn with investors including BlackRock and GIC.
  • CEO Pawan Kumar Chandana said the Vikram-1 orbital rocket could fly within the next couple of months.
  • Vikram-1 is designed to place up to 350 kg of small satellites into low Earth orbit using solid lower stages, a liquid upper stage, and 3D‑printed engines.
  • The Hyderabad company has grown to more than 1,000 employees and operates two manufacturing campuses named Max‑Q and Campus Infinity.
  • India opened its space sector to private firms in 2020, and Skyroot’s next test is to prove repeat launches and convert that policy shift into steady commercial demand.