Rs 22,500-Crore Spy Satellite Push: India Slashes Timeline From 4 Years To 1
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The Space Based Surveillance (SBS-3) program involves the production of 52 spy satellites, with 31 assigned to three private companies and the remaining 21 to be developed by ISRO
After four days of heavy cross-border firing and drone activity, the intervening night of May 11 and 12 saw no incidents of overnight firing along the heavily militarized Line of Control.
India and Pakistan on Saturday reached an understanding to stop all military actions on land, in the air and at the sea to stop escalating hostilities between the two nuclear-armed rivals.
India is now undertaking a significant initiative to bolster its intelligence-gathering capabilities by enhancing its spy satellite system. According to a report in The Mint, the need to strengthen the spy system has become apparent to both military forces and the government following Operation Sindoor.
The Indian government is collaborating with three private companies — Anant Technologies, Centum Electronics, and Alpha Design Technologies — to expedite the construction of these satellites. Initially, these companies had four years to complete the task, but the timeline has now been shortened to 12-18 months, with an aim to have the satellites operational by 2026 or earlier.
This project, which has received government approval due to its critical importance, is expected to cost approximately Rs 22,500 crore ($3 billion). Known as the Space Based Surveillance (SBS-3) program, the initiative received the green light from the Cabinet Committee on Security in October 2024. It involves the production of a total of 52 spy satellites, with 31 assigned to the three private companies and the remaining 21 to be developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The primary function of these satellites will be to monitor India's borders, particularly tracking activities in Pakistan. Additionally, they will provide crucial assistance during natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes.
Elon Musk's SpaceX will provide support for this project. The satellites will be developed and launched in several phases. Companies like Anant Technologies will design and develop some of the satellites from scratch, having spent the past year raising awareness about the project to attract technical experts. The Satish Dhawan Space Centre of ISRO will be utilised for the satellite launches, with two options available: ISRO's heavy rocket (LVM3) or SpaceX's rocket. Both will be employed to place the satellites into their respective orbits.
Strict deadlines have been set for the completion of this work, and the Ministry of Defence must grant approval before any satellite launches. This project is of paramount importance for India's national security.
An expert cited in The Mint highlighted that this satellite system represents a significant advancement for India. It not only enhances the security of the country's borders but also improves infrastructure. This initiative is also a considerable opportunity for India's private space companies, as they receive substantial contracts, enabling them to advance their technology and expedite their work, thus positioning India further ahead in the space sector.
First Published:
May 12, 2025, 11:20 IST
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