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Context:

Govt. builds on lessons from Operation Sindoor where satellite surveillance proved to be an important asset. 

About India to fast-track new military satellites for better surveillance at borders:

India’s efforts to strengthen national security are undergoing a significant transformation through the accelerated development and deployment of military-grade surveillance satellites. In light of evolving border challenges — particularly along the northern frontier with China and western front with Pakistan — India is giving renewed emphasis to space-based defence infrastructure, aimed at enhancing real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.

Why the Need for Satellite-Based Surveillance?

Recent developments, particularly the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, have highlighted gaps in India’s border surveillance network. Traditional ground-based methods are limited by terrain, weather, and logistical constraints. With rising incidents of transgressions, incursions, and increased deployment by adversaries, round-the-clock, real-time monitoring is essential.

Military satellites offer a persistent and wider field of view. They are capable of observing vast, remote regions such as the Himalayan belt, detecting enemy troop movements, and even tracking infrastructure developments on the other side of the border.

Strategic Significance of Fast-Tracking Military Satellites

India already operates a few dual-use satellites, such as Cartosat and RISAT series, which support both civilian and military purposes. However, these are inadequate for comprehensive military needs.

The push now is for dedicated military satellites — with high-resolution optical and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) imaging, all-weather, day-night capabilities, and faster data relays to armed forces.

Fast-tracking satellite launches will significantly improve:

• Border management: especially in inaccessible terrains like Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and the Rann of Kutch.
• Early warning systems: for missile launches and troop mobilisation.
• Inter-service coordination: among the Army, Navy, and Air Force via space-based secure communications.
• Real-time target acquisition and precision strike support: enhancing the efficacy of air and missile operations.

Institutional Framework and Recent Developments

India has already established the Defence Space Agency (DSA) and Defence Space Research Organisation (DSRO) for space warfare and military applications. These institutions are tasked with integrating space assets into India's defence doctrine.

Additionally, ISRO, in coordination with the armed forces, is working on:

• GEO and LEO satellites for military-specific use
• Space situational awareness systems
• Satellite constellations for redundancy and persistent coverage

Reports suggest that at least two to three new military satellites are in the pipeline, with expedited timelines.

Challenges

Despite progress, certain obstacles persist:

• Technological dependencies: India still relies on some imported components, particularly for radiation-hardened electronics.
• Budgetary constraints: Space-based military platforms are capital-intensive.
• Cyber and anti-satellite (ASAT) threats: With rising global weaponisation of space, India’s satellites themselves become vulnerable.
• Coordination between agencies: Faster integration between ISRO, DRDO, and the defence forces is required for timely execution.

Global Context

Space is increasingly seen as the fourth dimension of warfare, alongside land, air, and sea. Nations like the United States, China, and Russia have already established dedicated space commands. China's Yaogan series satellites, believed to support PLA’s military operations, give it an edge in terms of persistent border visibility.

India’s recent moves — such as the Mission Shakti ASAT test in 2019 and expansion of space infrastructure in defence — indicate a shift towards asserting space dominance.

Way Forward

To maintain a credible deterrence and ensure national security, India should:

• Accelerate the launch of dedicated defence satellites
• Promote indigenisation in satellite sub-systems
• Build resilience through multiple small satellites in constellations
• Strengthen cybersecurity and ASAT defences
• Foster public-private partnerships for innovation in space technologies

Space has emerged as a decisive arena in modern strategic competition. By fast-tracking military satellites, India is not only bridging critical gaps in surveillance and communication but also taking concrete steps toward developing a comprehensive and integrated national defence architecture. This move is essential to secure India’s borders and prepare for the emerging nature of hybrid and multi-domain warfare.

Source: The Hindu