India Develops "Bodyguard" Satellites Following Near-Collision, Bolstering Space Defense.
NEW DELHI, India – India is accelerating the development of a comprehensive "bodyguard" satellite program designed to protect its valuable space assets from potential threats. This strategic shift toward active orbital defense was triggered by a previously unreported near-collision incident in mid-2024, which exposed critical vulnerabilities in the nation's space security apparatus.
The initiative is part of a larger ₹270 billion ($3 billion) plan to deploy a network of approximately 50 surveillance satellites, with the first launches expected as early as next year. The program underscores India's commitment to securing its orbital interests in an increasingly contested domain.
Close Call Prompts Strategic Overhaul
The decision to develop protective satellites stems from an incident where a foreign satellite maneuvered dangerously close—within one kilometer—of an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) spacecraft orbiting at an altitude of 500-600 kilometers. The Indian satellite was engaged in mapping and monitoring activities with potential military applications.
While officials have not publicly identified the nation responsible, sources familiar with the matter suggested the close approach was potentially a deliberate demonstration of capability. The incident highlighted the urgent need for continuous in-orbit monitoring.
A Multi-Layered Defense Network
The bodyguard satellite program will involve collaboration with private startups to develop advanced Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) satellites. These guardians will be capable of quickly identifying potential threats, providing ground controllers with crucial time to maneuver endangered spacecraft out of harm's way.
This space-based layer will integrate with existing ground-based radars and telescopes to create a 24/7 orbital tracking network, a capability India currently lacks. "We do not have such in-orbit tracking capability on a 24x7 basis," said Sudheer Kumar N, former director at ISRO, "but some of the startups are working on it."
Urgency Fueled by Recent Conflict
The program's urgency has been magnified by recent geopolitical events, including a military confrontation with Pakistan in May 2025, where satellites played a pivotal role. During that conflict, over 400 ISRO scientists worked tirelessly to support military operations, while India assessed that China assisted Pakistan by adjusting its satellite coverage.
The space domain is rapidly militarizing, with India's fleet of 100-plus satellites operating in a environment where China boasts over 930 satellites. This disparity has accelerated India's defense planning.
Broader Space Security Push
The bodyguard satellites are one component of a broader, fast-tracked space defense strategy. India has significantly compressed the timeline for its Space Based Surveillance program, aiming to deploy 52 defense satellites by 2026 instead of the originally planned four years. This ₹22,500 crore project involves ISRO building 21 satellites, while private contractors develop the remaining 31.
This comprehensive approach signals India's determination to protect its critical orbital infrastructure, ensure self-reliance, and solidify its status as a leading space power in a congested and competitive environment.
