India’s Bold Plan for “Bodyguard Satellites” to Shield Space Assets

India is preparing to take a major leap in space security with the development of “bodyguard satellites”—special spacecraft designed to protect the nation’s critical satellites from threats in orbit. These protective companions will not perform communication or imaging tasks, but instead will act as guards in space, monitoring and defending valuable assets against collisions, interference, or hostile actions.

Why Bodyguard Satellites Are Needed

In 2024, an Indian satellite had a close call when a foreign spacecraft came dangerously near—within just 1 kilometre. Although there was no collision, the incident highlighted how vulnerable India’s space infrastructure is. With the increasing number of satellites in orbit and the growing competition among nations, the need for active protection has become urgent.

India relies heavily on satellites for communication, navigation (NavIC), weather forecasting, military surveillance, and disaster management. Any disruption or damage could paralyze vital services on the ground, making it clear why a dedicated protection system is essential.

How Bodyguard Satellites Work

A bodyguard satellite will orbit close to a high-value satellite, constantly scanning the surrounding space. Using sensors, cameras, radars, and infrared detectors, it can spot approaching objects—whether space debris or a suspicious foreign satellite.

Possible functions may include:

• Surveillance & detection – keeping watch on nearby space activity.

• Tracking & identification – distinguishing between harmless debris and potential threats.

• Early warning – alerting ground stations and the protected satellite about approaching dangers.

• Defensive action – maneuvering to block or distract a hostile satellite, or helping its companion move away from danger.

The biggest challenge lies in precision maneuvering. The bodyguard must stay close enough to react quickly but not so close that it risks collision itself.

India’s Larger Space Security Vision

The bodyguard satellites are expected to be part of a broader multi-layer defense system. India is already running programs like Project NETRA, which tracks space debris, and IS4OM, which manages safe satellite operations. Alongside these, India plans to build a network of nearly 50 surveillance satellites to watch over its orbital assets.

This plan could involve an investment of more than ₹27,000 crore, reflecting the government’s recognition that space is no longer just for science—it is a strategic battlefield where power and security go hand in hand.

Developing and operating bodyguard satellites will not be easy. India will need to overcome:

• Collision risks during close-proximity operations.

• Accurate sensors to avoid false alarms.

• Fuel and energy limits, since maneuvering in orbit consumes significant resources.

• International laws, because active space defense may raise diplomatic questions.

Still, the importance of protecting satellites outweighs these hurdles.

A Step Toward Resilient Space Power

The creation of bodyguard satellites would place India among the few nations capable of active satellite defense. It strengthens deterrence, ensuring that any adversary will think twice before attempting to interfere with India’s orbital assets.

As the global race for space dominance intensifies, India’s move signals its determination to safeguard its satellites—the invisible backbone of modern life. With this bold step, the country is transforming from being just a spacefaring nation to becoming a space-secure nation.