India is planning bodyguard satellites to protect its spacecraft after a near collision highlighted rising risks in orbit. The Modi government wants these satellites to detect and counter threats from other nations’ satellites.
The warning came after an unreported incident in mid-2024, when a satellite from a neighbouring country passed within 1 kilometre of an ISRO satellite orbiting 500–600 km above Earth. Though no collision occurred, the close approach may have been a show of strength.
The satellite-protection project is part of a larger plan to strengthen India’s space security. The government has allocated ₹27,000 crore ($3 billion) to launch around 50 surveillance satellites, with the first expected next year. Startups are helping develop solutions such as LiDAR satellites that can spot threats and allow technicians to reposition satellites in time.
Experts say these satellites will work alongside ground-based radars and telescopes, creating a 24×7 tracking system. During the May conflict with Pakistan, ISRO played a critical role by supporting Earth observation and communication satellites, ensuring India’s strategic advantage in space.
The project reflects India’s growing focus on space security, especially amid rising capabilities of China and other regional players.
