CERT-In, SIA-India Release New Space Cyber Security Framework

India has moved to protect its growing space sector from rising cyber threats. Indian Computer Emergency Response Team and SIA-India jointly released comprehensive Space Cyber Security Guidelines. It was released during the DefSat Conference & Expo 2026 in New Delhi on the 26th february 2026. The framework aims to safeguard satellite communication systems, ground infrastructure and space supply chains. With cyberattacks increasing sharply in recent years, the new advisory marks a major step in strengthening India’s space ecosystem against evolving digital risks.

India Space Cyber Security Guidelines 2026

• Space cyber security has become critical for India’s national infrastructure.
• Satellite communication systems enable connectivity in remote and strategic regions, support defence operations, strengthen disaster response, power navigation services and boost economic growth.
• The newly released India Space Cyber Security Guidelines 2026 provide a structured framework to secure these assets.
• As India expands its commercial and strategic space footprint, protecting satellites, communication networks and digital supply chains is now essential for national resilience and technological sovereignty.

CERT-In and SIA-India: Building a Unified Cyber Shield

• The guidelines were developed by Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, in collaboration with SIA-India.
• CERT-In is India’s national agency for cyber incident response under Section 70B of the IT Act, 2000.
• SIA-India represents satellite operators, manufacturers, startups and academic institutions in the space sector.
• This joint initiative reflects a strong public-private partnership approach, combining government cyber expertise with industry experience to create a unified and forward-looking cyber security framework.

DefSat 2026 and the Rising Cyber Threat Landscape

• The guidelines were unveiled at DefSat Conference & Expo 2026 held in New Delhi from 24-26 February 2026.
• The release comes amid a sharp surge in cyber threats.
• According to industry statements, more than 1.5 million cyberattack attempts were recorded during Operation Sindoor and attacks on government networks rose nearly sevenfold.
• These numbers highlight why India Space Cyber Security Guidelines 2026 are timely. Space systems are increasingly targeted due to their strategic, military and economic value.

Key Features of the Space Cyber Security Framework

The India Space Cyber Security Guidelines 2026 are advisory in nature but comprehensive in scope. They apply to,

• Government agencies
• Satellite service providers
• Ground station operators
• Equipment vendors
• Private space enterprises

The framework outlines essential cyber security principles, recommended controls and defined responsibilities. It emphasizes “defense in depth” meaning multiple layers of protection across satellites, ground networks and supply chains.

The goal is to promote resilience, accountability and proactive risk management across India’s expanding space ecosystem.

Protecting Satellite Communication and National Security

Satellite Communication (SatCom) systems are central to India’s digital infrastructure. They support military communication, remote education, telemedicine, broadcasting, navigation and disaster relief.

By securing these systems, the India Space Cyber Security Guidelines 2026 strengthen,

• National security preparedness
• Strategic autonomy
• Economic stability
• Disaster resilience

In a geopolitically sensitive and digitally interconnected world, cyber protection of space assets is now a strategic necessity.

Question

Q. The India Space Cyber Security Guidelines 2026 were released jointly by,

A) ISRO and DRDO
B) CERT-In and SIA-India
C) MeitY and IN-SPACe
D) ISRO and SIA-India