Archive · 13 Jun 2025
India to Launch Spy Satellites to Monitor Space Surveillance
India is building a network of spy satellites to keep an eye on other countries' satellites.
This project, managed by the Defence Ministry and a private startup, aims to detect if anyone is spying on India from space.
The satellites, expected to be ready by the end of 2026, will send information to stations on the ground.
This is part of India's plan to use its space technology for national security and to boost the country's space program.
The government is also showing confidence in Indian space companies by giving them these important contracts.
India's Defence Ministry is finalizing a contract to establish a satellite constellation to monitor other satellites.
The project aims to detect space surveillance efforts against India and will be built and deployed by the end of 2026.
The project will involve a network of Indian-made satellites communicating with ground stations.
Bengaluru-based startup Digantara has been awarded the contract, worth ₹150 crore annually.
The move reflects growing confidence in India’s private space capabilities and its space startups.
- Who
- The Defence Ministry, and the private startup Digantara.
- What
- India is setting up a network of satellites to monitor other satellites for surveillance purposes.
- When
- The project is expected to be completed and deployed by the end of 2026.
- Where
- The control team for the project will be based in Bengaluru.
- Why
- To bolster national security and detect potential space surveillance efforts against India.
Proponents
Critics
National Security vs. Space Militarization
Proponents
Enhances national security by detecting surveillance efforts.
Critics
Raises concerns about a space arms race.
- Project Name
- Satellite Mapping
- Contract Value
- ₹150 crore per year
- Deployment Deadline
- End of 2026
- Contractor
- Digantara
- Primary Focus
- Space Surveillance