India is preparing a major upgrade of its space-based intelligence capabilities after gaps were exposed during a recent military standoff. Following lessons learnt from Operation Sindoor, the government plans to launch more than 50 new spy satellites with night-time and all-weather imaging capabilities. The move aims to strengthen surveillance, improve battlefield awareness, and enhance national security.
Why in News?
India plans to deploy over 50 advanced surveillance satellites after its existing space assets showed limitations during Operation Sindoor and a four-day conflict with Pakistan, prompting urgent reforms in satellite-based intelligence systems.
Shift to Advanced Satellite Technology
- At the core of India’s new plan is a technological upgrade. India intends to move from traditional electro-optical imaging satellites to Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites.
- SAR technology allows satellites to capture high-resolution images at night and through cloud cover, making it ideal for continuous surveillance.
- This upgrade will significantly enhance India’s ability to track movements, monitor borders, and gather intelligence in real time, regardless of weather or lighting conditions. Such capabilities are now considered essential for modern warfare and national security.
Space-Based Surveillance Phase-3 Programme
- The satellite expansion will be implemented under Phase 3 of the Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) programme, which was cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security in October last year.
- The programme involves launching more than 50 satellites, some developed by Indian Space Research Organisation and others by three private Indian companies, reflecting growing public-private collaboration in India’s space sector.
- The total cost of deploying up to 150 satellites is estimated at ₹260 billion, highlighting the strategic importance of the initiative.
Strengthening Satellite Communication and Speed
- Apart from imaging upgrades, India is also working on satellite-to-satellite data transfer systems.
- This will reduce dependence on ground stations and enable faster sharing of intelligence during military operations.
- Rapid data flow is critical in conflict scenarios where delays of even minutes can impact decision-making. Improving inter-satellite communication will allow real-time monitoring, quicker response, and better coordination between defence forces, enhancing India’s overall situational awareness.
Overseas Ground Stations
- The government is also exploring the creation of overseas ground stations in regions such as the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Scandinavia to improve data relay speed and global coverage.
- Additionally, India is developing “bodyguard satellites” designed to detect and counter threats to Indian spacecraft in orbit. These measures reflect growing concerns about space security and the militarisation of outer space.
Key Summary at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
| Why in News? | India plans major satellite expansion after Operation Sindoor |
| Satellites Planned | Over 50 under SBS Phase-3 |
| Key Technology | Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) |
| Implementing Agency | ISRO with private firms |
| Estimated Cost | ₹260 billion for 150 satellites |
Question
Q. Which technology will India adopt to enable night-time and all-weather satellite imaging?
A. Electro-optical sensors
B. Infrared mapping
C. Synthetic Aperture Radar
D. Laser imaging
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