India’s Space Surveillance Program Set for Major Boost

India is set to significantly enhance its space-based surveillance capabilities with the upcoming launch of the first batch of satellites under the Space-Based Surveillance-3 (SBS-3) program, which is scheduled for 2027-28. This ambitious project, costing Rs 27,000 crore, will see the deployment of a total of 52 satellites, with 31 being manufactured by private companies and 21 by ISRO. This approach marks a shift from previous programs where ISRO was the sole manufacturer. The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved the program, which aims to strengthen India’s ability to continuously monitor key areas from space. Furthermore, ISRO will partner with France on some of the satellites, following a defense space cooperation agreement made in January 2024.

Source: Deccan Herald