GSAT-7, also called Rukmini, is a multi-band communication satellite used by the Indian Navy. An Ariane 5 launched it from Kourou in August 2013.
GSAT-7 gives voice and data links over a wide stretch of ocean as well as the Indian landmass. Its payloads work in the UHF, S, C and Ku bands, and the Indian Navy uses it to connect ships, submarines, aircraft and shore stations.
ISRO built GSAT-7. It weighed 2,650 kg at lift-off, measures 3.1 m × 1.7 m × 2.0 m and gives 3,000 W of power at the end of its life. It was designed to last more than seven years.
It was first meant to fly on India's GSLV but moved to a commercial launch instead. An Ariane 5 ECA rocket (flight VA-215) launched it from Kourou, French Guiana, in August 2013. GSAT-7 works from geostationary-orbit at 74° East.
The public satellite catalogue carries GSAT-7 with an operational flag.