Bangalore: Israel has proposed to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to jointly develop and launch a communication satellite into space.

Israele Space Agency (ISA), with expertise in building remote sensing satellites is looking at India, which has launched a slew of INSAT series communication satellites, for jointly developing the spacecraft.

"The discussions with Israel are in preliminary stages. They are looking at not only partnering to build the satellite, but also find customers," ISRO sources said on May 7.

ISRO and ISA recently signed an agreement to partner in space activities between the two countries.

Sources said there was no specific time frame for finalising the project, but added that once a decision is taken, it would take around two to three years to hurl the satellite into space.

India is presently launching its heavier communication satellites using the Arianespace rocket from Kourou in French Guyana in South America and in the next three years it would have the capability to launch satellites using the indigenous Geo-Synchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) from within India.

"We have not discussed on which launch agency would fire the satellite into space," sources said.

India's expertise in building and operating communication satellites, besides application of satellite technology for various social causes has earned it a reputation.

PTI