Archive · 30 Jun 2025
India to Deploy Military Surveillance Satellites by 2029
India is building 52 spy satellites to watch over its borders, particularly those with China and Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean Region.
These satellites, part of the Space-Based Surveillance program, will provide advanced surveillance capabilities.
The first launches will begin in April 2026, with the entire system operational by the end of 2029.
ISRO and three private firms are working together on the project.
These new satellites will allow India to monitor activity and respond to potential threats more quickly, supported by the use of AI and international cooperation.
India plans to deploy 52 military surveillance satellites by the end of 2029.
The first launch is scheduled for April 2026.
The project is part of the Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) program.
ISRO and three private firms are involved in developing and launching the satellites.
The satellites aim to enhance border security and monitor China, Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean Region.
- Who
- India, ISRO, and three private companies.
- What
- India is deploying 52 military surveillance satellites.
- When
- Deployment is planned by the end of 2029, with the first launch in April 2026.
- Where
- Border regions with China and Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean Region.
- Why
- To strengthen space-based monitoring, enhance border security, and counter threats.
- Total Satellites
- 52
- Project Cost
- ₹26,986 crore
- Start Date
- April 2026
- Completion Date
- End of 2029
- Primary Program
- SBS-3
- Main Objective
- Enhance surveillance and border security
