India’s Defence Space Agency has commenced its first-ever space warfare exercise, the Antariksha Abhyas – 2024. This pioneering and unprecedented event will last three days, starting from November 11 till November 13. The Antariksha Abhyas also represents a milestone in India’s defense strategy, while underscoring its space ambitions. The exercise aims to strengthen the nation’s resilience towards any threats aimed at its space-based assets.
A New Frontier In Strategic Defense in Space
The inaugural exercise emphasized India’s willingness to prepare for any contingency related to space. Led by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, the Antariksha Abhyas is set to help the country navigate emerging space-based threats. The General also stated that “Space, once considered the final frontier, is now a critical enabler of India’s defense and security.”
This exercise signifies India’s continued efforts and longstanding investments in space technology and highlights the need for a space defense infrastructure. During the inauguration, General Chauhan also hinted at a shift in military focus from terrestrial to extraterrestrial defense. The Antariksha Abhyas is also aimed at military leaders, urging them to prioritize innovation while leveraging partnerships with organizations like DRDO and ISRO.
India is well positioned to navigate the challenges posed to space-based capabilities – CDS Gen. Anil Chauhan
Objectives of “Antariksha Abhyas – 2024”
The primary motive is to enhance the understanding of the role of space-based assets in the defense of the country. Thus, the exercise will enable India’s armed forces to examine space-based operational dependencies such as reliance on satellite systems for communication and navigation, that are essential for modern warfare. Furthermore, by simulating various space-specific threats, the DSA can also pinpoint any vulnerabilities in our defense infrastructure and help safeguard the country’s strategic interests.
Another aim is to help evaluate the defense strategies when faced with potential denial of space services and how the military operates under the assumption of cyber threats or physical satellite disruptions. This will be crucial to form the necessary tactical response, thus ensuring a more resilient and robust security measure.
General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff launches a new chapter for India’s defence – "Antariksha Abhyas". The first ever tri-services Defence Space Exercise is preparing #IndianArmedForces to secure space assets, integrating cutting-edge technology to protect our future.… pic.twitter.com/pVzkI0ietE
— HQ IDS (@HQ_IDS_India) November 11, 2024
Who Participated or Collaborated in The Antariksha Abhyas?
Various military agencies participated in the inaugural exercise, including the Defence Space Agency, The Indian Army, the Indian Navy, and the Air Force. They were also joined by other specialized branches of the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, including Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Strategic Forces Command.
Helping Build India’s Space Legacy
The ambitious exercise will not only help the existing domestic space program but also help cement India’s space legacy. We have already launched lunar missions and deployed satellites to support global navigation, and advanced communication. Now, we have to leverage this experience to develop a comprehensive defense program for space.
Space as a New Military Domain
As global reliance on space technologies continues to thrive, so do the risks associated with space-based vulnerabilities. Thus, Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 also hopes to underscore India’s stance towards understanding such risks while being proactive in safeguarding its space assets.
The inaugural exercise will also serve as a framework for similar defense operations and training in the future and raise awareness amongst the armed forces. The Indian defense community has to adapt to the evolving realities and be ready to face the threat head-on.
Antariksha Abhyas: Impacts and Long-Term Goals
Apparently, the lessons and discoveries made during the exercise will help shape India’s future defense approach towards space-based threats. This involves looking to strengthen existing satellites and developing new forms of communication and surveillance systems. The exercise will also help with policymaking, thus guiding India’s investment in space-related defense technologies, defense readiness, and international collaborations in space security.
Today, space assets are indispensable for any successful military operation. India’s proactiveness will only serve to cement its reputation as a responsible and capable, space-faring nation, willing to maintain regional stability and peace. We believe Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 will be integral to these goals.
