Search

For any nation-state, multiple agencies are drawn in to guard their maritime interests, and technology plays a crucial role towards guarding such interests. This paper debates the significance of space technologies for the maritime domain in general and navies in particular. It identifies specific space technologies of relevance for improving ship movement and weapons delivery performance. Lastly, the paper also takes a macro view about investments made by India in space technologies for the purposes of their maritime requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Indian space program, which was started with a modest mandate in the early 1960s, has today become a leader in the developing world. India's space program is civilian in orientation and has a major socioeconomic developmental focus. India also has an interest in lunar and planetary exploration missions: it has already successfully undertaken its first Moon mission. Nuclear India's growing international stature gives it strategic relevance, both regionally and globally. Satellite technology, being inherently dual-use, has applicability for strategic purposes too. Modern-day military preparation demands dependence on space assets for communication, navigation and reconnaissance. This article attempts to understand how India is trying to factor space into its overall security calculus. With changing threat perceptions, it is becoming important for the Indian armed forces to increase its dependence on space assets. Currently, the mandate for the state's civilian space program, cost considerations, technology transfer and other geopolitical concerns are limiting India's foray into the military space arena. India's position as regards conducting an anti-satellite test has also not yet been clearly articulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]