India is developing “bodyguard satellites” to protect its space assets after a concerning near-miss incident with a foreign satellite in 2024.
Aiming to identify and counter threats, working with startups on solutions like LiDAR, as global space security concerns rise, with similar concepts also explored by the UK.
These satellites will monitor for hostile maneuvers, physical risks like debris, and cyber threats, complementing India’s existing space monitoring systems like IS4OM.
Government Focuses on Protecting Indian Satellites in Space
India is taking important steps to improve its security in space.
With growing global tensions and increasing use of technology in defence, India is now giving special attention to space-based monitoring and protection.
The main aim of this plan is to improve surveillance from space so that India’s borders, defence systems, and communication networks remain safe.
Today, satellites play a major role in military operations, and protecting them has become a national priority.
According to Bloomberg sources, the plan became more urgent after an incident in 2024 when a satellite from a neighbouring country came very close—about one kilometre—to an Indian ISRO satellite.
This raised concerns about the safety of Indian satellites and possible threats in space.
What Are Bodyguard Satellites?
Bodyguard Satellites are special satellites being developed to protect India’s important satellites in space.
Their job is to keep watch and provide security, just like guards protect important buildings on the ground.
These satellites will work as part of a group of around 50–52 defence satellites being developed by ISRO.
They will stay close to key satellites and keep monitoring space activities around them.
Their main roles include:
Sharing information quickly between satellites
Giving real-time updates to the armed forces
Watching military movements near India’s borders
Detecting unusual or suspicious activity in space
They are called “Bodyguard” satellites because they will always stay alert and protect India’s space assets.
Operation Sindoor Highlighted the Need for Better Space Support
The need for better satellite support became clear during Operation Sindoor in May 2025.
During this operation, India carried out military action against Jaish-e-Mohammed.
Reports from The Economic Times said that India used its own satellites and some foreign commercial satellite data.
However, problems were noticed in getting real-time information quickly.
Officials said that faster and more accurate satellite data is necessary for modern military operations.
Deploying all 52 defence satellites will greatly improve India’s response time and planning ability.
India’s Plan for the Future
The government plans to launch 52 defence satellites by 2029.
These satellites will act as India’s “eyes in space” and keep a close watch on sensitive areas, especially near the Pakistan and China borders.
ISRO is working with Indian private companies and startups to use advanced technologies. One such technology is LiDAR, which helps in detecting objects accurately.
These satellites will also use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to quickly study data and identify risks.
At a height of about 36,000 kilometres, the satellites will be able to communicate with each other easily and send images and messages faster to Earth.
Strong Message to Rival Nations
Experts believe this space security system will make it difficult for enemy countries to act without being noticed.
It will help India:
Detect threats early
Protect military decision-making
Maintain control during conflict situations
In today’s world, having fast and correct information is very important for national security.
Indian Air Force Supports the Move
The Indian Air Force has welcomed this step and called it very important for the future.
Air Force leaders believe that future wars will depend more on technology and real-time information than on traditional weapons.
Using modern space systems now will help India stay prepared for future challenges.
Conclusion
India’s plan to deploy Bodyguard Satellites is a major step in improving national security.
By protecting satellites and strengthening space surveillance, India is making sure it stays alert and prepared.
This initiative is not merely about satellites, it represents India’s determination to secure its strategic interests in an era where space is fast becoming the next frontier of national defence.
