The Department of Space provided an operational status update on India's Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) system in response to a parliamentary question. The constellation currently consists of three operational satellites: IRNSS-1B, IRNSS-1I, and NVS-01. This follows the completion of the 10-year mission life of IRNSS-1F.
With only three satellites operational, the NavIC constellation cannot provide standalone positioning services, as a minimum of four operational satellites are required for basic positioning functionality. However, the timing service component of the system remains functional despite the reduced satellite count.
The Indian Armed Forces continue to utilize NavIC services by operating it within a multi-constellation Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) environment, which allows them to maintain operational services without disruption. The government stated that since most use-cases employ NavIC in this multi-constellation environment, there is no vulnerability for users despite the reduced satellite availability.
To address the capability gap, the next NavIC satellite, NVS-03, is ready for launch. Additionally, two more satellites—NVS-04 and NVS-05—are in advanced stages of realization, indicating the system will be restored to full operational capability in the near future.
This information was formally provided by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Prime Minister's Office and Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha on July 29, 2026.