India has reportedly initiated steps to accelerate the launch of 52 satellites dedicated to defence purposes. These satellites will significantly enhance India’s ability to monitor activities across enemy territories.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by the Prime Minister, had approved the third phase of the Rs 26,968 crore Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) programme in October last year. This ambitious programme comprises 52 defence satellites. Of these, 21 satellites will be developed and launched by ISRO, while the remaining 31 will be built by three Indian private sector companies. The Defence Space Agency, operating under the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) of the Ministry of Defence, is leading this strategic initiative.
The first satellite under the SBS-3 project is scheduled for launch in April next year. According to the media reports, all 52 satellites are expected to be in orbit by the end of 2029. Once operational, the constellation will enable India to maintain surveillance over vast areas, including territories in China, Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean region. These satellites will provide real-time monitoring and high-resolution imaging capabilities.
In addition to the satellite programme, the Indian Air Force is working to acquire three High Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS), advanced unmanned aircraft that can operate from the stratosphere and provide prolonged surveillance coverage.
Following the Pahalgam terror attacks, India relied on both indigenous and foreign satellites, including the Cartosat series, to track enemy movements during the intense military engagement with Pakistan from May 7 to 10. Satellite imagery played a critical role in monitoring operations and presenting verifiable evidence of attacks to the international community.
Meanwhile, India’s advancements come amid rising technological competition. China is aggressively investing in counter-space technologies, including missiles and laser-based weapons capable of disabling or destroying satellites. Given the close military cooperation between China and Pakistan, India’s enhanced space surveillance capability is expected to strengthen its strategic dominance in the region.
