Indian Defence Forces Prioritise Space Assets and Manpower Expansion for Future Warfare

As the global nature of warfare evolves to encompass the strategic frontier of space, India’s defence forces are laying the groundwork to secure the nation’s interests in this critical domain. Recognizing the increasing militarization of space, India is ramping up efforts to expand its space-based assets, fortify relevant infrastructure, and increase manpower in agencies tasked with space security.

In a high-level presentation spearheaded by the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), senior Defence Ministry officials, service chiefs, and representatives from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) outlined the roadmap for India’s defence space initiatives. This integrated approach underscores the country’s commitment to building capabilities for space-centric warfare.

A major part of the strategy involves strengthening the Defence Space Agency (DSA), the nodal body overseeing the military’s space-related operations. The DSA, which operates under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has been tasked with a dual responsibility: rapidly increasing the number of Indian assets in space and ensuring their security from potential threats. This move comes as space becomes a more "congested, contested, competitive, and commercial" domain, as highlighted by CDS General Anil Chauhan in recent remarks.

A Boost to India's Space-Based Assets

The Defence Space Agency is preparing for an ambitious rollout of space-based surveillance and communication capabilities. A key element of this plan is the recently approved space-based surveillance project, which envisions the deployment of 52 satellites designed for strategic surveillance, communication, and navigation. These satellites will significantly enhance India's intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, particularly along sensitive areas like the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and borders with Pakistan.

This large-scale satellite network will involve partnerships with both government and private entities, reflecting India's growing emphasis on integrating its private sector into the defence and space ecosystem. Enhanced satellite coverage is expected to provide high-resolution imagery, secure communication channels, and real-time situational awareness for military operations.

Expanding Manpower and Ground Infrastructure

Given the increased operational scope, the DSA and other related organisations are set to witness a significant expansion in personnel and resources. The Central government has also approved the establishment of two specialised agencies focused on developing both defensive and offensive space capabilities. This marks a clear shift towards preparing for potential conflicts that may unfold in the space domain.

On the ground, the expansion of command and control infrastructure is underway to support the increasing number of satellites. Additionally, investments are being directed toward research and development in anti-satellite (ASAT) technology, advanced missile systems, and cyber capabilities to safeguard India’s space assets from adversarial threats.

Collaboration and Innovation at the Core

CDS General Anil Chauhan has emphasised the importance of fostering innovation and leveraging cutting-edge technologies to keep India at the forefront of space defence. He has called for stronger collaboration between military stakeholders, ISRO, DRDO, and the private sector to develop state-of-the-art systems for space warfare. This includes the development of precision-based weapons, counterspace technologies, and robust early-warning systems for tracking potential threats.

India’s growing focus on space defence aligns with global trends where countries like the United States, China, and Russia are rapidly militarizing space. While India has made notable strides with the successful demonstration of ASAT capabilities during Mission Shakti in 2019, the current plans signify a broader and more sustained effort to dominate the space domain.

Strategic Implications

The expansion of India’s space assets has far-reaching implications for national security. Enhanced satellite surveillance will provide critical intelligence and early warning mechanisms, strengthening India's ability to respond to emerging threats. Moreover, bolstering defensive and offensive space capabilities ensures that India is prepared to counter any adversary attempting to challenge its space assets.

This proactive approach places India among the growing ranks of nations recognising space as the next battleground. By investing in this strategic domain, the Indian defence forces are not only safeguarding national interests but also establishing the country as a formidable player in the global space race.

With plans to increase space-based assets, manpower, and infrastructure, India is making it clear that its future defence strategy is firmly anchored in the skies above.