India Launches First Ever Space Defence Exercise ‘Antariksha Abhyas’ to Secure National Interests

New Delhi, India - The Indian military embarked on a new frontier of defence strategy with the commencement of the ‘Antariksha Abhyas – 2024’, a pioneering three-day space exercise being conducted by the Defence Space Agency (DSA) from 11 to 13 November 2024. This first-of-its-kind exercise is aimed at war-gaming the growing threats to and from space-based assets and services. It is a critical step toward securing India’s national strategic objectives in space and integrating its burgeoning space capabilities into military operations.

In his opening address, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan underscored the importance of space in modern defence. “Space, once considered the final frontier, is now the critical enabler of India’s defence and security apparatus,” he stated. Highlighting the dynamic and evolving nature of space, he said, “With its rich legacy of space exploration and growing military capabilities, India is well-positioned to navigate the challenges posed to space-based capabilities.” 

The exercise is being conducted under the aegis of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, with active participation from the Defence Space Agency and its allied units, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Notably, specialized branches such as the Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Strategic Forces Command are also partaking in the event. Additionally, experts from the Indian Space Research Organisation ( ISRO ) and the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) are contributing their insights to enhance the exercise's operational scope. 

Aims and Objectives of the Exercise 

The primary objective of Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 is to deepen the understanding of the operational dependencies on space-based assets and services, as well as the vulnerabilities in case of disruptions to these services. The growing reliance on satellite communications, navigation, intelligence gathering, and reconnaissance makes space a crucial domain for modern warfare. As space becomes increasingly congested, contested, competitive, and commercial, the exercise will focus on evaluating how space-based systems can be protected and integrated into military operations.

General Chauhan, in his address, stressed that space is no longer a peaceful domain but one that is rapidly becoming an arena of contention. The CDS highlighted the importance of fostering innovation and developing cutting-edge technologies in collaboration with DRDO, ISRO, and academia to ensure that India’s space-based capabilities remain resilient in the face of emerging threats. 

Exercise Focus Areas 

The exercise will explore several critical areas: 

1. Understanding Space-Based Asset Dependency: Participants will examine the operational reliance on space assets such as satellites for communication, navigation, surveillance, and targeting. This understanding is crucial to ensure that military operations remain effective, even under the threat of space-based disruptions. 
2. Identifying Vulnerabilities in Space Operations: A significant component of the exercise will involve identifying potential vulnerabilities in conducting military operations if space-based services are denied or disrupted. These could include the denial of satellite communications, GPS, or reconnaissance systems. 
3. Collaboration Across Agencies: A multi-agency collaboration, including the DSA, DRDO, ISRO, and various branches of the Indian Armed Forces, will aim to bolster joint operations in space. This collaboration is essential to integrate military strategies with national space capabilities. 
4. Scenario-Based War-Gaming: The exercise will feature a simulation of space conflict scenarios where space assets may be targeted or disrupted. The aim is to assess the preparedness of India’s defence apparatus in countering such threats and ensure continuity of operations. 
5. Fostering Innovation in Space Technologies: In line with General Chauhan’s emphasis, the exercise will also focus on exploring innovative solutions for protecting and enhancing space-based assets. Collaboration between the military and India’s civilian space agencies will be key to developing next-generation space defence technologies. 

A Step Toward Securing Space Assets 

The successful conduct of Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 will pave the way for future exercises and a structured approach to space warfare readiness. The Indian military’s growing recognition of space as a domain of potential conflict reflects global trends, as other major powers also increasingly militarize space.

General Chauhan’s remarks echoed the necessity of securing space-based capabilities in an era where satellite systems play a pivotal role in intelligence gathering, communications, and even the operational success of modern military forces. As adversaries also enhance their space capabilities, it becomes essential for India to establish a robust space defence strategy, not only to defend national assets but also to deter any potential threats in space. 

Participants and Stakeholders 

Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 sees a large range of stakeholders actively participating: 

• Defence Space Agency (DSA): Leading the exercise, with personnel from DSA and allied units. 
• Indian Armed Forces: Representatives from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. 
• Defence Cyber Agency: Addressing cybersecurity concerns related to space operations. 
• Defence Intelligence Agency: Providing insights into space intelligence and its integration into military operations. 
• Strategic Forces Command: Participating in operational scenarios involving India’s nuclear assets and their link to space-based capabilities. 
• ISRO and DRDO: Playing a critical role in the technological and research aspects of the exercise. 

The Path Ahead 

As Antariksha Abhyas – 2024 progresses, it marks a crucial step toward solidifying India’s position in the growing realm of space security. This exercise will not only strengthen India’s defence posture but also ensure that its space-based assets are secured against evolving threats. As space continues to be an essential enabler of military power, India’s focus on its integration into defence operations demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to safeguarding national interests in the space domain. 

The outcomes of this exercise will likely influence India’s space defence strategies in the coming years and will serve as a model for similar exercises in the future. With a strong focus on national security, innovation, and cross-agency collaboration, India is preparing to lead in the new age of space warfare.