What happened?
India is finalizing its first-ever military space doctrine, expected within two to three months, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan announced at the Indian DefSpace Symposium. He also revealed that a national military space policy is underway. The doctrine is being developed by the Defence Space Agency to institutionalize India’s approach to space as a warfare domain. The CDS emphasized space reforms and plans for a 52-satellite constellation for defence use.
Why it matters to India
A dedicated space doctrine will formalize India’s strategic orientation toward space as a combat and surveillance frontier. With rising militarization of space globally, especially by China and the US, India’s proactive approach enhances deterrence and preparedness. The Defence Space Agency’s focus on integrated satellite grids and partnerships with ISRO and private players reflects a shift toward secure, indigenous space capabilities critical for national defence and real-time surveillance across domains.