Defence Space Agency

The Naresh Chandra Task Force was set up in July 2011 by National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon to review the recommendations of the Kargil Review Committee, assess the implementation progress and further suggest new reforms related to national security.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/opinion/manoj-joshi/story/national-security-naresh-chandra-gom-manmohan-singh-cabinet-committee-on-security-ministry-of-defence-chandra-committee-iaf-army-218292-2013-11-22|title=Shutting his ears to change|last1=Joshi|first1=Manoj|website=India Today|date=22 November 2013 |language=en|access-date=25 September 2019}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.rsis.edu.sg/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/PR140301_The_Unending_Quest_to_Reform_India_National_Security_System.pdf|title=Policy Report: The Unending Quest to Reform India National Security System|last=Joshi|first=Manoj|date=March 2014|website=S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) (www.rsis.edu.sg)|access-date=25 September 2019}} The task force was led by Naresh Chandra, retired Indian Administrative Service officer, and comprised 13{{Nbsp}}other members, including Gopalaswami Parthasarathy, Air Chief Marshal Srinivasapuram Krishnaswamy (Retd), Admiral Arun Prakash (Retd), Lt Gen V. R. Raghavan (Retd), Anil Kakodkar, K C Verma and V K Duggal. The committee conducted the first holistic review of national security since the Kargil Review Committee and submitted its classified report to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on 23{{Nbsp}}May{{Nbsp}}2012.{{cite web|url=https://www.rediff.com/news/report/naresh-chandra-task-force-to-recommend-permanent-head-chiefs-of-staff-committee/20120523.htm|title=All eyes on Naresh Chandra report on natl security today|website=Rediff|access-date=25 September 2019}} Among its recommendations, the Task Force recommended the creation of a cyber command, an aerospace command and a special operations command. All three units were proposed to be tri-service commands.{{cite web|url=https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/book-defence-reform-3.pdf|title=Defence Reforms: A National Imperative|last1=Kanwal|first1=Gurmeet|last2=Kohli|first2=Neha|website=Brookings|access-date=25 September 2019}}{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2019/may/16/formation-of-indian-armed-forces-special-operations-unit-begins-to-have-3000-commandos-1977651.html|title=Formation of Indian armed forces' special operations unit begins, to have 3000 commandos|website=The New Indian Express|date=16 May 2019 |access-date=25 September 2019}} The DSA is a downsized implementation of this proposal.

The creation of the Defence Space Agency (DSA), the Defence Cyber Agency (DCA), and the Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD) was approved by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Combined Commanders' Conference at Jodhpur Air Force Station on 28 September 2018.{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/pm-narendra-modi-attends-combined-commanders-conference-in-jodhpur/articleshow/65996826.cms|title=PM Narendra Modi attends Combined Commanders' Conference in Jodhpur|date=2018-09-28|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-09-25}}{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/major-general-a-k-dhingra-appointed-as-the-first-special-operations-division-commander/articleshow/69339545.cms|title=Major General A K Dhingra appointed as the first Special Operations Division Commander|date=2019-05-15|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-10-07|archive-date=20 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190820205749/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/major-general-a-k-dhingra-appointed-as-the-first-special-operations-division-commander/articleshow/69339545.cms|url-status=dead}} The Defence Imagery Processing and Analysis Centre in Delhi and the Defence Satellite Control Centre in Bhopal were subsumed by the DSA.

{{further|Mission Shakti}}

File:Launch of DRDO's Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor missile for an ASAT test on 27 March 2019.jpg

Months before the operationalisation of the Defence Space Agency, India conducted an Anti-satellite weapon (ASAT) test in March 2019. The test was aimed at demonstrating India's anti-satellite capability.{{Cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-idUSKCN1R80IA|title=Modi hails India as military space power after anti-satellite missile test|date=2019-03-28|work=Reuters|access-date=2019-10-07|language=en}}

The Indian ASAT programme can be traced back to its BMD program, which began in 1999 in response to threats posed by the Ballistic missiles of Pakistan and China.[http://www.defensenews.com/aero/story.php?id=2524130 Interview: Vijay Kumar Saraswat]{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} In 2006 and 2007, India tested its first exo atmospheric interceptor and has developed many interceptors since then.{{cite web|last=Ratliff |first=Ben |url=http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/03/06/asia/AS-India-Missile-Defense.php |title=India successfully tests missile interceptor |work=International Herald Tribune |access-date = 27 April 2019}}{{cite web|url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/site/Story/31874/LATEST%20HEADLINES/DRDO+readies+shield+against+Chinese+ICBMs.html |title=DRDO readies shield against Chinese ICBMs |work=India Today |date=9 March 2009 |access-date = 27 April 2019}} On 18 March 2008, DRDO Chief V. K. Saraswat had hinted that India possessed technology required for an ASAT missile, reiterating it in February 2010.{{Cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/india-successfully-tests-asat-missile-joins-space-superpower-club-119032800048_1.html|title=India successfully tests ASAT missile, joins space superpower club|last=Shukla|first=Ajai|date=2019-03-28|work=Business Standard India|access-date=2019-10-07|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190814090312/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/india-successfully-tests-asat-missile-joins-space-superpower-club-119032800048_1.html|archive-date=14 August 2019}} India is known to have been developing an exo-atmospheric kill vehicle that can be integrated with the missile to engage satellites.{{cite web|url=https://www.strategicfront.org/india-needs-demonstrate-asat-capability-publicly/|title=Why India Needs to Demonstrate Anti Satellite (ASAT) Capability - Publicly - Strategic Frontier Research Foundation|date=12 February 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222051723/https://www.strategicfront.org/india-needs-demonstrate-asat-capability-publicly/|archive-date=2017-12-22|access-date=2015-06-11}} In April 2012, Saraswat again said that India possessed the critical technologies for an ASAT weapon from radars and interceptors developed for Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme.{{cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/agni-v-drdo-chief-dr-vijay-kumar-saraswat-interview-100405-2012-04-27|title=India has all the building blocks for an anti-satellite capability|last=Unnithan|first=Sandeep|date=27 April 2012|newspaper=India Today|access-date=7 October 2019|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327081410/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/agni-v-drdo-chief-dr-vijay-kumar-saraswat-interview-100405-2012-04-27|archive-date=27 March 2019|df=dmy-all}} India had begun work on its ASAT soon after the 2007 Chinese anti-satellite missile test.

As of April 2019, India was working on directed energy ASAT weapons, co-orbital ASAT weapons, lasers and electromagnetic pulse (EMP) based ASAT weapons. The ability to protect space assets from hostile electronic and physical attacks was also being developed by India.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms|title=ASAT missile: Satellite-killer not a one-off, India working on star wars armoury {{!}} India News - Times of India|date=7 April 2019|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2019-10-07}}

It was reported in late 2023 that the Indian Air Force (IAF) has proposed to rename itself as the Indian Air and Space Force (IASF) with an enhanced focus on space-based capabilities India also plans to have over 100 small and large military satellites within 7 to 8 years with the DSA to expand into a full-fledged Space Command.{{Cite news |date=2023-12-11 |title=IAF goes full throttle to turn into an 'aerospace power' |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/iaf-goes-full-throttle-to-turn-into-an-aerospace-power/articleshow/105885149.cms |access-date=2024-12-26 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}

After the approval of 52 surveillance and communication satellites for the Indian Armed Forces, the Department of Military Affairs gave a detailed presentation to the senior members of the Ministry of Defence and key stakeholders from ISRO and DRDO in December 2024. According to a report, plans are being devised to strengthen the Defence Space Agency and other related organisations by increasing the agency's manpower, ground-based infrastructure, space-based assets as well as ensuring their protection from threats. These steps are being taken to enhance India's space-centric warfare capabilities.

On 7 April 2024, India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, announced the forthcoming release of a dedicated military space doctrine within two to three months as well as the underway formulation of a national military space policy.{{Cite news |date=2025-04-08 |title='Military space doctrine' in 2-3 months: CDS Anil Chauhan amid China push |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/military-space-doctrine-in-2-3-months-cds-anil-chauhan-amid-china-push/articleshow/120075733.cms |access-date=2025-04-08 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite web |last=Deshpande |first=Smruti |date=2025-04-07 |title=Military space doctrine & national military space policy on the anvil, says CDS Gen Chauhan |url=https://theprint.in/defence/military-space-doctrine-national-military-space-policy-on-the-anvil-says-cds-gen-chauhan/2581299/ |access-date=2025-04-08 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}

India conducted its first simulated space warfare exercise on 25th and 26 July 2019, called IndSpaceEx. The exercise was conducted under the supervision of the Integrated Defence Staff. The exercise was aimed at obtaining an assessment of threats and the creation of a joint space warfare doctrine.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/eye-on-china-india-set-to-kickstart-1st-space-war-drill/articleshow/70354760.cms|title=Eye on China, India set to kickstart 1st space war drill {{!}} India News - Times of India|date=24 July 2019|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2019-10-07}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/space-defence-is-india-prepared-to-fight-and-win-tomorrows-wars-4314861.html|title=Space Defence {{!}} Is India prepared to fight, and win tomorrow's wars?|website=Moneycontrol|date=9 August 2019 |access-date=2019-10-07}}

The first edition of the exercise was conducted from 11 to 13 November 2024 by Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff. The exercise will simulate various scenarios of war-game the growing threats from and to Space Based Assets and Services.{{Cite web |date=2024-11-11 |title=First Ever Space Exercise ‘Antariksha Abhyas – 2024’ hosted by Defence Space Agency begins in New Delhi |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2072518 |access-date=2024-11-11 |website=Press Information Bureau}}

The Space Based Surveillance is a series of projects taken up by the Government of India to launch a constellation of satellites for earth observation roles. Additionally, the Indian Armed Forces also operates communications satellites of the GSAT-7 series of which GSAT-7 and GSAT-7A are active while GSAT-7B, GSAT-7C and GSAT-7R are planned for launch.

The Phase-I project was approved by the PM Atal Bihari Vajpeyee in 2001. In this phase, 4 satellites — Cartosat-2A, Cartosat-2B, EROS B and RISAT-2 — were launched.{{Cite web |date=2024-10-11 |title=Exclusive: CCS clears launch of 52 surveillance satellites |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/exclusive-ccs-clears-launch-of-52-surveillance-satellites-101728615288379.html |access-date=2024-10-22 |website=Hindustan Times}}

The Phase-II project was approved by the government on 2013 as a part of which 6 satellites — Cartosat-2C, Cartosat-2D, Cartosat-3A, Cartosat-3B, Microsat-TD, RISAT-2A — were approved for development and launch.

On 12 October 2024, India's Cabinet Committee on Security approved a proposal for the development, construction and launch of a constellation of 52 spy satellites as a part of the Space Based Surveillance Phase-III project intended to enhance the country's surveillance capabilities from space in both land and sea domains. The project, worth {{INRConvert|26968|c|lk=on|year=2024}}, will be supervised by National Security Council Secretariat along with the Defence Space Agency under the Integrated Defence Staff. The constellation will also enhance the SATCOM capabilities of long range UAVs of the Armed Forces like the MQ-9B Predator drones that are on order. The SBS system will provide round-the-clock monitoring, irrespective of weather, time of day or atmospheric conditions and may have secondary civilian applications as well. All the satellites is to be launched within 5 years at Geosynchronous Equatorial Orbit (GEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO). The satellites will be equipped with artificial intelligence for inter-satellite communications.{{Cite news |date=2024-10-12 |title=CCS 'approves launch of 52 spy satellites for Rs 27,000 crore to boost space surveillance |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/ccs-approves-launch-of-52-spy-satellites-for-rs-27000-crore-to-boost-space-surveillance/articleshow/114158442.cms |access-date=2024-10-20 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite news |date=2024-10-12 |title=Space spy squad: India greenlights 52 satellites for Rs 27,000 crore sky-high surveillance |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/space-spy-squad-india-greenlights-52-satellites-for-rs-27000-crore-sky-high-surveillance/articleshow/114162342.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-10-20 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}{{Cite web |last= |first= |title=Modi government approves Rs 27,000 crore worth spy satellites for space surveillance: Report |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/modi-government-approves-rs-27000-crore-worth-spy-satellites-for-space-surveillance-report-3229787 |access-date=2024-10-20 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}

As part of the project, 21 satellites will be co-developed by ISRO and France (under the LoI agreement for “defence space cooperation”) while the rest of 31 satellites are to be developed by three private sector companies. The role of these satellites would be surveillance, reconnaissance, communication and other strategic purposes. The CCS has also, reportedly, approved two agencies to develop multiple types of defensive and offensive capabilities from space. Under the same project, few experiments would be conducted for an integrated LEO and MEO satellite-based communication system which is a requirement for the Air Force and the Navy. The first batch of satellites will be launched in 2027-28.{{Cite web |title=Aero Show 2025: First batch of satellites under new space surveillance programme to be launched by 2027-28 |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/karnataka/bengaluru/aero-show-2025-first-batch-of-satellites-under-new-space-surveillance-programme-to-be-launched-by-2027-28-3402717 |access-date=2025-02-12 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=2024-12-17 |title=Preparing for future warfare, Indian defence forces looking to expand space assets, manpower |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/preparing-for-future-warfare-indian-defence-forces-looking-to-expand-space-assets-manpower/articleshow/116406579.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-12-26 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}

{{anchor|Milsat|MilSat|Present military satellites}}

As of 2024, India operates 9 military satellites.{{Cite web |title=Satellite Database {{!}} Union of Concerned Scientists |url=https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/satellite-database |access-date=2024-10-20 |website=www.ucsusa.org |language=en}} Of these, three strategic satellites including two communication satellites (GSAT-7 and GSAT-7A){{Cite news |date=2023-03-31 |title=After Navy & IAF, Army to get dedicated satellite Gsat-7B as MoD inks Rs 3k cr deal with NSIL |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/after-navy-iaf-army-to-get-dedicated-satellite-gsat-7b-as-mod-inks-rs-3k-cr-deal-with-nsil/articleshow/99129740.cms |access-date=2024-10-21 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite web |title=As Space Security Scares Mount, India Works on Military Space Capabilities |url=https://thewire.in/space/as-space-security-scares-mount-india-works-on-military-space-capabilities |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=The Wire |language=en}} are for dedicated military use, while the rest are dual-purpose satellites with military and civilian applications.

{{Incomplete list|date=October 2024}}

1. CARTOSAT-2B carries a panchromatic (PAN) camera capable of taking black-and-white pictures in the visible region of electromagnetic spectrum which has a resolution of 80 centimetres.{{cite web |title=Cartosat 2 and 2B/Alsat 2A/StudSAT/Cartosat 2A/ISRO/PSLV C15 Rocket |url=http://www.imagine18.com/cartosat-2-and-2b-alsat-2a-studsat-cartosat-2a-isro-pslv-c15-rocket/9199/09/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716191437/http://www.imagine18.com/cartosat-2-and-2b-alsat-2a-studsat-cartosat-2a-isro-pslv-c15-rocket/9199/09 |archive-date=16 July 2010 |access-date=19 July 2010}} The highly agile CARTOSAT-2B can be steered up to 45 deg along as well as across the direction of its movement to facilitate imaging of any area more frequently and offers multiple spot scene imagery.{{cite web |date=12 July 2010 |title=Spy satellite to catch miners, land encroachers |url=http://www.deccanherald.com/content/81017/spy-satellite-catch-miners-land.html}}{{Cite web |title=CartoSat-2B - eoPortal |url=https://www.eoportal.org/satellite-missions/cartosat-2b#mission-capabilities |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=www.eoportal.org}}
2. GSAT-7 was launched in 2013 for the exclusive use of the Indian Navy to monitor the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) with the satellite's 2,000 nautical mile ‘footprint’ and real-time input capabilities to Indian warships, submarines and maritime aircraft.[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/why-isros-gsat-7a-launch-is-important-for-iaf/articleshow/67153347.cms Why Isro's Gsat-7A launch is important for the Indian Air Force], Times of India, 19 Dec 2018. To boost its network-centric operations, the IAF is also likely to get another satellite GSAT-7C within a few years.
3. HySIS, a dual use satellite, was also launched in November 2013, which is used by the navy.[https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/with-gsat-7a-isro-launches-angry-bird-for-iaf/3-satellites-in-35-days/slideshow/67173280.cms 3 satellites in 35 days], Economic Times, Dec 2018. HySIS carries two payloads, the first in the Visible Near Infrared (VNIR) spectral range of 0.4 to 0.95 micrometres with 60 contiguous spectral bands and the second in the Shortwave Infrared Range (SWIR) spectral range of 0.85 to 2.4 micrometres with a 10 nanometre bandwidth and 256 contiguous spectral bands. The satellite will have a spatial resolution of 30 meters and a swath of 30 km from its 630 km sun-synchronous orbit.{{Cite news |last=D.s |first=Madhumathi |date=9 August 2017 |title=ISRO to develop full-fledged hyperspectral imaging satellite |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/isro-to-develop-full-fledged-earth-observation-satellite/article19458651.ece |access-date=11 November 2018 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{cite web |title=India's Tech Roadmap Points to Small Sats, Space Weapons |url=http://archive.defensenews.com/article/20130910/DEFREG03/309100007/India-s-Tech-Roadmap-Points-Small-Sats-Space-Weapons |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150121220451/http://archive.defensenews.com/article/20130910/DEFREG03/309100007/India-s-Tech-Roadmap-Points-Small-Sats-Space-Weapons |archive-date=2015-01-21}}{{Cite news |date=2018-11-24 |title=Nellore: Hyperspectral Imaging Satellite to be launched on November 29 |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/241118/nellore-hyperspectral-imaging-satellite-to-be-launched-on-november-29.html |access-date=2018-11-26 |work=Deccan Chronicle |language=en}}{{Cite news |title=Isro to launch hyperspectral imaging sat with 30 foreign satellites on Nov 29 - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/isro-to-launch-hyperspectral-imaging-sat-with-30-foreign-satellites-on-nov-29/articleshow/66801810.cms |access-date=2018-11-25 |work=The Times of India}}{{Cite news |date=4 December 2018 |title=The militaristic claims of ISRO's latest satellite have been greatly exaggerated |url=https://theprint.in/science/the-militaristic-claims-of-isros-latest-satellite-have-been-greatly-exaggerated/158545/ |access-date=4 December 2018 |work=ThePrint}}
4. Cartosat-2C: Launched in June 2016, the satellite was used in reconnaissance purposes before and during 2016 Indian Line of Control strike.{{Cite news |date=2016-09-30 |title=Surgical Strikes: First major use of Cartosat images for Army |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/surgical-strikes-first-major-use-of-cartosat-images-for-army/articleshow/54596113.cms |access-date=2024-10-22 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}
5. Cartosat-2E: Launched on 23 June 2017, the Cartosat-2E satellite was designed to collect high-resolution (0.6 m×0.6 m), large scale imagery. The satellite provides an edge in warfare with clearer images. The satellite is also used for urban planning, infrastructure development and traffic management.{{Cite web |date=2021-11-24 |title=Defence ministry clears proposal for GSAT-7C satellite for IAF: A look at other military satellites in India |url=https://www.firstpost.com/india/defence-ministry-clears-proposal-for-gsat-7c-satellite-for-iaf-a-look-at-other-military-satellites-in-india-10160861.html |access-date=2024-10-21 |website=Firstpost |language=en-us}}
6. GSAT-7A: Launched in December 2018 for the exclusive military use for the Indian Air Force. GSAT-7A allows IAF to interlink different ground radar stations, ground airbase, aircraft to aircraft Real-time Control System, AEW&C aircraft such as Beriev A-50-based Phalcon and DRDO Netra. The satellite enhances network-centric warfare capabilities of the Indian Air Force and its global operations.[https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2018/dec/20/chandrayaan-2-on-track-32-missions-next-year-isro-1914082.html Chandrayaan-2 on track, 32 missions next year: ISRO], Indian Express, 20 Dec 2018. The satellite is also used by Indian Army's Aviation Corps for real-time control and communication of its aviation operations.{{Cite web |title=India's Tech Roadmap Points to Small Sats, Space Weapons |url=http://archive.defensenews.com/article/20130910/DEFREG03/309100007/India-s-Tech-Roadmap-Points-Small-Sats-Space-Weapons |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20150121220451/http://archive.defensenews.com/article/20130910/DEFREG03/309100007/India-s-Tech-Roadmap-Points-Small-Sats-Space-Weapons |archive-date=2015-01-21}}{{Cite web |title=IAF to induct 214 fifth generation fighter jets |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/iaf-to-induct-214-fifth-generation-fighter-jets/189940-3.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111006000407/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/iaf-to-induct-214-fifth-generation-fighter-jets/189940-3.html |archive-date=2011-10-06}}
7. EMISAT: Launched on 1 April 2019, is a reconnaissance satellite{{cite web |title=PSLV C45 Launch Kit |url=https://www.isro.gov.in/pslv-c45-emisat-mission/launch-kit |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190323093804/https://www.isro.gov.in/sites/default/files/pslv-c45_launch_kitv5.0_fn_23.03.19.pdf |archive-date=23 March 2019 |access-date=2019-03-25 |website=www.isro.gov.in}} under DRDO's project Kautilya{{cite web |title=Kautilya |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/kautilya |access-date=26 January 2020}} which will provide space-based electronic intelligence or ELINT, especially to improve the situational awareness of the Indian Armed Forces by providing information and location of enemy radars.{{Cite news |last=D.s |first=Madhumathi |date=2019-04-01 |title=India gets surveillance satellite |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/technology/pslv-isro-emisat-launch-from-sriharikota-on-april-1/article26699077.ece |access-date=2019-07-24 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}
8. RISAT-2B: Launched on 22 May 2019 has replaced the retired RISAT-2. The primary requirement of the satellite is military surveillance along with secondary civilian purposes like disaster management, agriculture and forestry.{{Cite news |last=D.S |first=Madhumathi |date=2019-04-02 |title=Starting May, ISRO to launch a string of 'defence' satellites |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/starting-may-isro-to-launch-a-string-of-defence-satellites/article26714439.ece/amp |access-date=2024-10-22 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}{{cite web |date=27 April 2021 |title=Display: RISAT-2B 2019-028A |url=https://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nmc/spacecraft/display.action?id=2019-028A |access-date=14 May 2021 |publisher=NASA}} {{PD-notice}}
9. RISAT-2BR1: Launched on 11 December 2019 as a part of RISAT series. It can distinguish between objects which are 35 cm apart.
10. EOS-01 (previously RISAT-2BR2)

1. GSAT-7R, planned to replace GSAT-7 for the Indian Navy.{{cite news |last1=Pubby |first1=Manu |date=18 July 2019 |title=Indian Navy: Navy to buy Rs 1,589 crore satellite from ISRO |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/navy-to-buy-rs-1589-crore-satellite-from-isro/articleshow/70283927.cms |access-date=19 January 2020 |newspaper=Economic Times}}
2. GSAT-7B, planned to be first dedicated military satellite for the Indian Army. The approval was granted by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on 21 March 2023. The multiband military satellite, featuring integrated communication for network-centric operations, will be launched in 2–3 years.{{Cite web |last=Philip |first=Snehesh Alex |date=2022-03-23 |title=India eyes more military satellites, aims for secure communication & 24-hr border surveillance |url=https://theprint.in/defence/india-eyes-more-military-satellites-aims-for-secure-communication-24-hr-border-surveillance/884796/ |access-date=2024-10-22 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}} Contract for a 5-tonne satellite signed with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), worth {{INRConvert|2963|c|lk=on|year=2023}} on 29 March 2023. The satellite would provide beyond line of sight communication to troops and formations as well as weapon and airborne platforms.{{Cite web |date=2023-03-29 |title=Aatmanirbhar Bharat: MoD inks two contracts with BEL, worth Rs 2,400 crore, for procurement of Automated Air Defence Control & Reporting System ‘Project Akashteer’ for Indian Army... |url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleaseIframePage.aspx?PRID=1911937 |access-date=2024-11-14 |website=Press Information Bureau}}
3. GSAT-7C, planned to replace GSAT-7A for the Indian Air Force.{{cite news |last1=P |first1=Rajat |date=22 September 2018 |title=Satellite control set to give drones more sting |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-control-set-to-give-drones-more-sting/articleshow/65907159.cms |work=The Times of India}}
4. RISAT-2A: Initially planned for launch before RISAT-2B around December 2018 was postponed to 2020. However, there have been no further updates as of 2024. The satellite is planned to be equipped with synthetic-aperture radar and will operate at 5.35 GHz in C band.{{Cite web |title=RISAT 2A |url=https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/risat-2a.htm |access-date=2024-10-22 |website=Gunter's Space Page |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=2018-04-23 |title=Isro to launch slew of military satellites soon |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/isro-to-launch-slew-of-military-satellites-soon/articleshow/63873638.cms |access-date=2024-10-22 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}{{Cite news |last=D.S |first=Madhumathi |date=2019-04-02 |title=Starting May, ISRO to launch a string of 'defence' satellites |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/starting-may-isro-to-launch-a-string-of-defence-satellites/article26714439.ece/amp |access-date=2024-10-22 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}
5. Cartosat-3A (EOS-8): Planned to be launched on PSLV-XL. Will have a panchromatic resolution of 0.25 metres and a high quality resolution of 1 metre. To be launched in 2024.{{Cite web |title=Cartosat 3, 3A, 3B |url=https://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/cartosat-3.htm |access-date=2024-10-22 |website=Gunter's Space Page |language=en}}
6. Cartosat-3B: Planned to be launched on PSLV-XL. Will have a panchromatic resolution of 0.25 metres and a high quality resolution of 1 metre. To be launched in 2025.{{Cite web |title=PSLV-XL {{!}} Cartosat-3B |url=https://nextspaceflight.com/launches/details/2029 |access-date=2024-10-22 |website=nextspaceflight.com |language=en}}

1. Technology Experiment Satellite or (TES) is an experimental satellite to demonstrate and validate, in orbit, technologies that could be used in the future satellites of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).{{cite web |title=Technology Experiment Satellite (TES) |url=http://www.isro.org/satellites/technology_experiment_satellite_tes.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612214937/http://isro.org/satellites/technology_experiment_satellite_tes.aspx |archive-date=12 June 2010 |access-date=18 July 2010 |df=dmy-all}} The Technology Experiment Satellite (TES) has a panchromatic camera capable of producing images of 1 meter resolution for remote sensing.{{cite news |date=27 November 2001 |title=India's spy satellite boost |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/1679321.stm |access-date=31 Jul 2009 |publisher=BBC}} The launch of TES made India the second country in the world after the United States that can commercially offer images with one meter resolution. It is used for remote sensing of civilian areas, mapping industry and geographical information services.
2. RISAT-2, or Radar Imaging Satellite 2 has a primary sensor, the synthetic aperture radar from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).{{cite web |last=Krebs |first=Gunter |title=ANUSAT |url=http://space.skyrocket.de/doc_sdat/anusat.htm |access-date=2009-04-17 |publisher=Gunter's Space Page}} RISAT-2 is India's first satellite with a synthetic aperture radar. It has a day-night, all-weather monitoring capability and has a resolution of one metre.{{cite web |last=Herman |first=Steve |date=20 April 2008 |title=India Launches High-Tech Imaging Satellite |url=http://www.voanews.com/english/archive/2009-04/2009-04-20-voa13.cfm?CFID=264321146&CFTOKEN=89382867&jsessionid=8830364952f39bcb7dcb118473f48396c7a4 |access-date=31 Jul 2009 |publisher=Voice of America}}{{dead link|date=April 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} Potential applications include tracking hostile ships at sea.{{cite news |date=20 April 2009 |title=India's spy in the sky: ISRO launches RISAT-2 |url=http://ibnlive.in.com/news/indias-spy-in-the-sky-isro-launches-risat2/90656-11.html?from=rssfeed |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090427135457/http://ibnlive.in.com/news/indias-spy-in-the-sky-isro-launches-risat2/90656-11.html?from=rssfeed |archive-date=2009-04-27 |access-date=2009-04-20 |publisher=CNN-IBN}} Though the Indian Space Research Organisation sought to underplay the satellite's defence capabilities in its website and in its announcements, a majority of the media preferred to classify it as a spy satellite.{{cite news |date=20 April 2009 |title=India launches key spy satellite |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8007653.stm?from=rssfeed |access-date=2009-04-20 |publisher=BBC}} ISRO claims that the satellite will enhance ISRO's capability for earth observation, especially during floods, cyclones, landslides and in disaster management in a more effective way.{{cite web |title=RISAT-2 |url=http://www.isro.org/satellites/RISAT-2.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612220312/http://isro.org/satellites/RISAT-2.aspx |archive-date=12 June 2010 |access-date=19 July 2010}}
3. CARTOSAT-2 carries a state-of-the-art panchromatic (PAN) camera that take black and white pictures of the Earth in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. The swath covered by these high resolution PAN cameras is 9.6 km and their spatial resolution is 80 centimetres.{{cite web |title=CARTOSAT-2 program data |url=http://www.scanex.ru/en/data/default.asp?submenu=cartosat2&id=index |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100718095148/http://www.scanex.ru/en/data/default.asp?submenu=cartosat2&id=index |archive-date=18 July 2010 |access-date=19 July 2010}} The satellite can be steered up to 45 degrees along as well as across the track. CARTOSAT-2 is an advanced remote sensing satellite capable of providing scene-specific spot imagery. The data from the satellite will be used for detailed mapping and other cartographic applications at cadastral level, urban and rural infrastructure development and management, as well as applications in Land Information System (LIS) and Geographical Information System (GIS). Cartosat was decommissioned and the perigee lowered by controlled burns between March and Sep 2020 as debris mitigation activities. This will result in the orbit naturally decaying and re-entry within 10 years.
4. GSAT-6A is a dedicated satellite for army as a replacement for GSAT-6 which lost communication after its launch.
5. Microsat-R, a dedicated military satellite for the Indian Armed Forces, was launched on 24 January 2019. The 760 kg imaging satellite was launched using PSLV C-44 rocket.[https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/isros-pslv-c-44-places-military-satellite-microsat-r-in-orbit/articleshow/67679340.cms India launches military satellite], Times of India, 25 January 2019.

The headquarter of the DSA is in Bangalore.{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/defence-space-agency-to-come-up-at-bengaluru/articleshow/69345697.cms|title=Defence Space agency to come up at Bengaluru|date=2019-05-15|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-10-07}}{{Dead link|date=January 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }} It functions under the Integrated Defence Staff.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/centre-names-officers-for-tri-service-divisions/article27142117.ece|title=Centre names officers for tri-service divisions|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2019-05-16|work=The Hindu|access-date=2019-10-07|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X}} Personnel from all the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces will be stationed in the agency. The agency is expected to be fully operational by November 2019.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-begins-setting-up-new-tri-service-agencies-to-handle-special-operations-space-and-cyberspace/articleshow/69346012.cms|title=Agencies take shape for special operations, space, cyber war|date=15 May 2019|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2019-09-25}}

The DSA will operate systems to protect Indian interests in outer space and will deal with potential space wars. The agency will have the responsibility of developing a space warfare strategy.{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/government-finalises-broad-contours-of-defence-space-agency/articleshow/69745921.cms|title=Government finalises broad contours of defence space agency|date=2019-06-11|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-10-07}} It works on Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), Electronic Intelligence (ELINT), Communication Intelligence (COMINT) and in areas like space-based tracking systems.{{Cite news|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2021-03-26|title=Two years since ASAT test, DRDO working on several key space technologies|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/two-years-since-asat-test-drdo-working-on-several-key-space-technologies/article34171447.ece|access-date=2021-03-28|issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web|last=D'Souza|first=Caroline Esther|date=2021-03-26|title=India increases military capabilities in space two years after Mission Shakti|url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/india-increases-military-capabilities-in-space-two-years-after-mission-shakti-2350777.html|access-date=2021-03-28|website=Zee News|language=en}}

The Defence Space Research Agency (DSRA) is the scientific organisation responsible for developing space-warfare systems and technologies for the Defence Space Agency. The DSRA was approved by the Government of India in June 2019.{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/defence-space-research-agency-modi-govt-approves-new-body-to-develop-space-warfare-weapon-systems-1546951-2019-06-11|title=Defence Space Research Agency: Modi govt approves new body to develop space weapon systems|date=11 June 2019|website=India Today|language=en|access-date=2019-10-07}} The DSRA is composed of scientists who undertake research and development in close coordination with the Integrated Defence Staff.{{Cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/modi-govt-approves-new-agency-to-develop-space-warfare-weapon-systems-119061100627_1.html|title=Modi govt approves new agency to develop space warfare weapon systems|last=ANI|date=2019-06-11|work=Business Standard India|access-date=2019-10-07}} Various types of Anti-satellite weapon systems are currently under development.

• Space Force
• TSAT-1A

; Integrated entities

• Defence Planning Committee, tri-services command at policy level with NSA as its chief
• Chief of Defence Staff (India), professional head of the Indian Armed Forces
• Integrated Defence Staff, tri-services command at strategic level composed of MoD, MEA and tri-services staff
• Indian Armed Forces Tri-Service Commands
• Northern Theatre Command (India)
• Western Theatre Command (India)
• Maritime Theatre Command
• Air Defence Command (India)
• Strategic Forces Command, nuclear command of India
• Indian Nuclear Command Authority, Strategic Forces Command
• Defence Cyber Agency
• Special Operations Division

; Assets

• List of Indian Air Force stations
• List of Indian Navy bases
• List of active Indian Navy ships
• India's overseas military bases

; Other nations

• Space Forces (Russia) - Russian equivalent command
• Space Operations Command (US) - U.S. equivalent command

; General concepts

• Joint warfare, general concept
• Credible minimum deterrence
• List of cyber warfare forces of other nations

{{reflist}}

{{Military of India}}

{{Indian space programme}}

{{Space forces}}

{{Politics of outer space}}

Category:Military units and formations of India

Category:Joint military units and formations of India

Category:2018 establishments in Karnataka

Category:Government agencies established in 2018

Category:Space units and formations