India’s Defense Space Agency (DSA) is significantly enhancing its satellite surveillance capabilities to strengthen national security and maintain strategic dominance in space. The DSA, established in 2019 as the apex body for coordinating India’s military space activities, is deploying advanced satellites equipped with high-resolution imaging, electronic intelligence (ELINT), and signal intelligence (SIGINT) capabilities. These satellites are designed to monitor activities across land, sea, and air, providing real-time intelligence for defense operations.
This expansion includes the development of indigenous satellite constellations under projects like the Integrated Surveillance and Reconnaissance Program. These constellations aim to improve situational awareness, enabling early warning of potential threats such as missile launches, naval movements, and hostile activities. The initiative also leverages technologies such as synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and hyperspectral imaging to achieve precision monitoring, even in adverse weather conditions.
The DSA is working closely with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to develop and deploy these assets. Collaboration with private space-tech firms has also been encouraged under India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ mission, fostering innovation and self-reliance in space-based defense systems.
These enhanced capabilities are crucial as India seeks to address emerging threats in the space domain, including the weaponization of space and counter-space operations by adversaries. By expanding its surveillance infrastructure, the DSA is ensuring that India remains prepared to secure its assets and maintain strategic advantage in the rapidly evolving global defense landscape.
