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Skyroot Aerospace has delivered its Stage 2 engine, the Kalam-250, to the Satish Dhawan Space Centre for integration into the Vikram-1 launch vehicle. The Kalam-250 engine, delivering 250 kN of thrust, will undergo pre-flight checks as part of the final assembly phase.

Vikram-1 aims to deliver up to 480 kg to low Earth orbit and is significant as India's first privately developed orbital-class rocket. The rocket's success could lead to increased private space missions by 2027.

Skyroot, founded in 2018, has progressed from suborbital tests to this orbital milestone, leveraging advanced materials and designs. Launch is anticipated in Q1 2026, subject to final integrations.