India to fast-track 52 military satellites for better surveillance at borders

After defence forces realised the need for more precision surveillance during Operation Sindoor, the Union government has ordered the fast-tracking of the launch of 52 dedicated surveillance satellites, enhancing round-the-clock monitoring of coastline and land borders.

In October last year, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Cabinet Committee approved $3.2 billion for the SBS-III programme to develop next-generation satellites over the next decade. Under the programme, ISRO will manufacture and launch the first 21 satellites, while private companies will handle the remaining 31. The Defence Space Agency (DSA) will oversee the operation of the newly launched satellite system.

“We have asked the private companies and ISRO for early launch of satellites. These new satellites will add a next-generation radar imaging capability that will help in all-weather and day-night surveillance. We are expecting first set of satellites to be launched by 2026,” said a senior official.

The official added that the new satellites will be using artificial intelligence (AI) to make smarter decisions and improve overall performance and efficiency in space.

During Operation Sindoor, satellite-based surveillance helped Indian defence forces to act swiftly by offering accurate intelligence, including the trajectory and movement of drones and missiles.

After the successful implementation of SBS-III, India will become more self-reliant and reduce its dependence on other countries. It will help focus more clearly and accurately on the Pakistan and China border and the Indian Ocean Region.

During the Operation Sindoor, it was claimed that China provided satellite support to Pakistan.

India’s satellites, like the Cartosat and RISAT, helped defence forces to track enemy mobilisation, confirm strike impact, and maintain real-time situational awareness, which prevented any major damage to the country’s military assets.