TAG: GS-3: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY & GS-2: INTERNAL SECURITY
CONTEXT: India has launched its first-ever space exercise, Antariksha Abhyas – 2024, to address the growing challenges to space-based assets and ensure the integration of its space capabilities with military operations.
EXPLANATION:
About Antariksha Abhyas
- The exercise comes in response to an increasingly congested and contested space environment. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan brought into light the importance of space in modern defence. He noted that space is now a critical enabler of national security. This exercise aims to fortify India’s position in the space domain.
- Defence Space Agency: This agency is responsible for coordinating India’s military operations in space. It plays important role in enhancing national security against space-based threats.
- This exercise is India’s first dedicated military initiative focusing on space security. It aims to integrate space capabilities with military operations effectively.
Objectives of the Exercise
- Antariksha Abhyas has several key objectives. It seeks to enhance understanding of space-based assets. Participants will explore operational dependencies on these assets.
- The exercise will also identify vulnerabilities in military operations. This includes assessing impacts from potential disruptions to space services.
Participants Involved
- The exercise will involve a diverse range of participants. Personnel from the Defence Space Agency will lead the initiative.
- Representatives from the Army, Navy, and Air Force will also contribute. Specialist branches such as the Defence Cyber Agency and Defence Intelligence Agency will play active roles. Additionally, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) will participate.
Importance of Collaboration:
- Collaboration among various agencies is crucial for success. The exercise encourages partnerships between military and civilian sectors.
- This command oversees India’s nuclear arsenal. It ensures the readiness of strategic forces and contributes to national security through deterrence and defence strategies.
- It aims to encourage innovation and develop cutting-edge technologies. Such collaboration is essential for addressing the challenges in the space domain.
- The outcomes of Antariksha Abhyas could shape future military strategies. About vulnerabilities in space operations will enhance preparedness.
- This exercise may lead to improved policies for space security. It reflects India’s commitment to safeguarding its interests in space.
About Defence Space Agency:
- Headquarters: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
- Objective: Operates space warfare and satellite intelligence assets of the Indian Armed Forces.
- Draws personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Historical background: Originates from recommendations of the Naresh Chandra Task Force (2012), which suggested creating tri-service commands for cyber, aerospace, and special operations.
- Approved in 2018 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Combined Commanders’ Conference.
- Integrated facilities: Subsumed the Defence Imagery Processing and Analysis Centre (Delhi) and Defence Satellite Control Centre (Bhopal).
Source:
https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2072518
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