Developing an Effective Space Strategy for India’s Defence

Jeffy Jacob

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Considering the need for interoperability between the army, navy, air force, and space organisations, how can India develop an effective space strategy?

There is a need to maximize the use of space-based resources, focusing particularly on downstream applications, including optimising requirements through defence challenges. Ideally, sharing raw data from a central source could be beneficial, particularly when multiple services have diverse applications that rely on specific electromagnetic spectrums.

For instance, one scientist might utilize the spectrum to analyse changes in vegetation on land, while another scientist could apply it to study water bodies. It depends on different scientist’s interpretation of satellite images for different purposes.

As the threat from land, water, and air increases, the monitoring and mapping of sea and land do not belong to just one service.

What role can India’s private sector play in advancing the military space program and bolstering the nation’s space capabilities?

The focus of the Indian Private Sector currently is on expanding our remote sensing capabilities regarding launches, constellations, and building larger satellites. There is less emphasis on scientific research and exploring new frontiers as there is no incentive or business opportunity currently to invest time and money in these areas.