Cambridge study says India's launch price per kilogram far exceeds US, space officials dispute
A University of Cambridge analysis finds India's satellite launch cost per kilogram is more than four times that of the United States, while a senior Department of Space source says the study omits key subsidies.
A 2026 study by economists from the University of Cambridge and Politecnico di Torino examined over 6,740 rocket launches between 1960 and 2025 and concluded that India’s per-kilogram launch price, at $13,302, is more than four times higher than the United States’ $3,225, placing India at the top of the cost hierarchy. The research covered 16 regions and more than 330 rocket configurations. In response, a high-ranking source from India’s Department of Space argued that the analysis fails to account for subsidies provided by ISRO’s commercial subsidiary NSIL, such as a 30% discount on launch fees and reduced logistics expenses from the Sriharikota site.
The department also cited two schemes - the Launch Services Price-support Scheme and the Price Support Scheme - that can lower costs for private users, offering up to 100% funding for certain payloads. These incentives aim to make Indian launch services more competitive despite the study’s findings. The paper also projected a steep decline in global launch costs over the coming decade.
Why it matters
Understanding true launch costs affects India's competitiveness in the growing commercial space market.
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