Vikram-32: India’s Leap in Space-Grade Microprocessor Technology

Sep 2, 2025

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A Milestone Unveiled at Semicon India 2025

At the Semicon India 2025 summit, India proudly unveiled Vikram-32 (officially VIKRAM3201), marking a foundational step toward semiconductor self-reliance. It was presented to Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Electronics & IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, symbolizing India’s commitment to domestic chip design and production

Origins & Technical Lineage

Design & Fabrication: Developed by Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and fabricated at ISRO’s Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) in Mohali using a 180 nm CMOS process
Evolution: Builds upon the legacy of India’s 16-bit VIKRAM1601, which powered ISRO’s launch systems since 2009
Companion Chip: Its sibling, KALPANA-3201, is a SPARC V8 RISC microprocessor developed simultaneously

Engineered for Space: Why Vikram-32 Matters

32-bit Architecture: Handles larger datasets and complex logic faster than 16-bit predecessors
Floating-Point Support: Enables high-precision operations vital for navigation, telemetry, and mission control
Custom Instruction Set (ISA): Tailored for aerospace tasks and optimization
Ada Language Support: Leverages reliability in aerospace systems; C compiler development is underway for broader versatility
In-House Toolchain: Includes compiler, assembler, linker, simulator, and IDE—fully developed within ISRO

Proven in Orbit

Vikram-32 was not just a concept—it’s flight-certified. It successfully operated aboard the PSLV-C60 mission’s Orbital Experimental Module (POEM-4), proving its reliability in the harshest space environments

The Broader Implication for India’s Chip Ecosystem

This launch follows the India Semiconductor Mission (2021) and marks rapid progress—India has moved from chip consumer to creator in just 3.5 years

The unveiling included not only the Vikram chip but also test chips from four government-approved projects, showcasing India’s growing innovation footprint

Prime Minister Modi lauded the moment as a leap toward technological sovereignty. He emphasized that “semiconductor chips are the ‘digital diamonds’ of the 21st century” and called for global collaboration to build India’s semiconductor future

Potential Impact: From Space to Strategic Industries

Space & Defence: Engineered for extreme temperatures, vibration, and radiation—ideal for rockets and satellites
Broader Applications: Its ruggedness makes it suitable for automotive electronics, energy systems, and aerospace avionics

Quick Summary Table

Feature	Details
Name	VIKRAM3201 (Vikram-32)
Developers	ISRO VSSC (design) & SCL Chandigarh (fabrication)
Process Node	180 nm CMOS
Key Upgrades	32-bit, floating-point, custom ISA, Ada support
Tools	In-house compiler, assembler, simulator, IDE
Space Validation	PSLV-C60 / POEM-4 mission
Strategic Edge	Self-reliant chip for space & defense ecosystem

Final Take

Vikram-32 is not just a microprocessor—it’s a symbol of India’s arrival as a semiconductor innovator. Its flight success, robust architecture, and domestic development ecosystem represent a major stride toward global technological leadership. As India races to build its semiconductor sector, the Vikram-32 chip stands out as a beacon of “Design Made in India, Trusted by the World.”

About the author

I’m Himanshu Dhar, a dedicated MIS trainer proudly associated with I Turn Institute. My journey in the realm of data management and automation spans over 14 enriching years. My passion for this field extends to freelancing projects, where I bring real-world practicality into my teaching. My impact in education is marked by the success of over 25,000 students I’ve had the privilege of mentoring, hailing from diverse backgrounds. Beyond the classroom, I’ve had the honor of conducting corporate training sessions and seminars, catering to the unique needs of businesses. Let’s unlock your potential together in the realm of data analysis and automation.