The Department of Space has approved the establishment of Common Technical Facilities (CTFs) in Gujarat and Tamil Nadu to strengthen India’s growing private-sector space manufacturing ecosystem. The announcement was made on 22 May 2026 with the involvement of Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre.
Common Technical Facilities are shared engineering and testing hubs that provide advanced infrastructure for space hardware development. These facilities are intended to support startups and industries involved in rocket systems, spacecraft manufacturing, satellite integration, and payload validation by reducing the need for expensive standalone testing infrastructure.
In Gujarat, a Space Manufacturing Park will be developed at Khoraj near Ahmedabad. The park will focus on spacecraft manufacturing and complex payload systems, including structural assembly and electronic validation. Payload systems refer to the scientific instruments or mission-specific equipment carried by spacecraft and launch vehicles.
In Tamil Nadu, a Space Vehicles Cluster will be established at Thoothukudi near the upcoming small satellite launch complex at Kulasekharapatnam. The cluster will focus on manufacturing, testing, and integration of complete launch vehicle systems. The central government has sanctioned ₹100 crore for the specialised facility.
Under the operational model, IN-SPACe will procure and install the technical systems and initially manage operations before transferring ownership to the respective state governments. The states will provide land, buildings, and supporting civic infrastructure.
The initiative reflects India’s efforts to expand its commercial space sector by combining central technical expertise with state-supported industrial infrastructure, while promoting innovation, manufacturing, and private participation in the space industry.
