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A 200 tonne semi-cryogenic engine and the SC120 stage meant to replace the LVM3 core

India's semi-cryogenic stage is designated SC120 and is powered by the 2000 kN-class SE2000 engine.
The stage is planned to replace the L110 core stage of the LVM3 launch vehicle.
It will be integrated with an uprated cryogenic upper stage designated C32.
Testing uses a Power Head Test Article, which contains all engine systems except the thrust chamber.
Hot tests are conducted at the ISRO Propulsion Research Complex at Mahendragiri in Tamil Nadu.
The article has been run at thrust levels of 47 per cent or 94 tonnes, 60 per cent or 120 tonnes, 88 per cent or 175 tonnes, and finally at a full thrust of 200 tonnes.
Propellant supply was switched from a low-pressure start tank to a medium-pressure run tank to allow longer duration tests.

Stage: SC120 Engine: SE2000, 2000 kN class Stage replaced: L110 core stage of LVM3 Test facility: IPRC, Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu
Why it matters for exams: Stage names and engine designations of Indian launch vehicles are frequently asked in science and technology sections.
Kerala PSCUPSC
21 October 2026 Source: Indian Space Research Organisation

In plain words

IPRC ISRO Propulsion Research Complex — The ISRO centre at Mahendragiri where liquid and cryogenic propulsion systems are assembled and tested.

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