India’s Defence Space Agency Launches ‘Antariksha Abhyas – 2024’ to Tackle Space Security Threats
The Defence Space Agency (DSA), under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, has initiated Antariksha Abhyas – 2024, a three-day exercise focused on assessing and countering the growing threats to space-based assets and services. Running from 11 to 13 November 2024, this exercise marks a milestone as India’s first-ever war-game dedicated to space security. Its main objective is to bolster national strategic goals in space and to integrate space capabilities into India’s military operations.
Growing Importance of Space in National Defence
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan opened the exercise with remarks underscoring the vital role of space in modern defence. He stated, “Space, once considered the final frontier, is now a critical enabler of India’s defence and security apparatus.” With India’s legacy in space exploration and its expanding military capabilities, he emphasised that India is well-positioned to address challenges impacting space-based systems. General Chauhan pointed out that space is increasingly becoming a congested, contested, competitive, and commercial domain. He urged military leaders to secure India’s interests by fostering innovation and collaborating with organisations like the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and academic institutions to develop cutting-edge space technologies.
Goals of Antariksha Abhyas – 2024
The primary focus of Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 is to deepen understanding of operational dependencies on space-based assets and to identify vulnerabilities that may arise during disruptions or denials of space services. This comprehensive approach aims to prepare India’s defence forces for potential conflicts that could involve space resources. Participants from various branches of India’s armed forces, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force, are joining the DSA in this exercise.
The exercise will also include personnel from specialised branches within the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, such as the Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Strategic Forces Command. Additionally, experts from ISRO and DRDO are playing key roles, providing insights and technological expertise to enhance the security of India’s space capabilities.
Strengthening Space Resilience Through Collaboration
Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 is expected to lay a foundation for collaborative innovation between defence and research organisations. By involving critical stakeholders, the exercise aims to advance India’s space technology and ensure resilience in space-based defence capabilities. This initiative highlights India’s commitment to protecting its interests in space while advancing technological capabilities to respond to emerging challenges in space security.