Introduction
On 27th March 2019, India created history by successfully conducting an Anti-Satellite (ASAT) missile test under Mission Shakti. With this, India became the 4th country in the world to demonstrate such capability after the USA, Russia, and China. This landmark event was a significant step in strengthening India’s space security architecture and asserting its role in space diplomacy and deterrence strategy.
What is Mission Shakti?
Mission Shakti was a joint mission by DRDO and ISRO, aimed at developing and demonstrating Anti-Satellite missile technology. It involved the destruction of a live satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), approximately 300 km above Earth, using a direct-ascent kinetic kill vehicle.
Key Highlights:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | 27 March 2019 |
| Lead Agency | DRDO |
| Type | Direct-Ascent Kinetic Kill |
| Target | Microsat-R (Indian satellite) |
| Orbit | Low Earth Orbit (300 km) |
| Duration | Test conducted within 3 minutes |
| Result | Successful hit and destruction of target satellite |
Background and Development
- The need for space-based defense was felt due to the growing use of satellites in warfare (communication, surveillance, GPS).
- India’s progress in ballistic missile defense systems laid the groundwork for ASAT technology.
- The test was conducted discreetly, showcasing India’s mature and responsible space behavior.
| Timeline | Event |
|---|---|
| Pre-2000s | Initial discussions on space defense begin in scientific circles |
| 2012–2018 | DRDO develops Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) systems |
| Early 2019 | ASAT missile test planned under high confidentiality |
| 27 March 2019 | Mission Shakti conducted successfully from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island |
India has consistently emphasized the peaceful use of outer space, but with growing concerns of satellite vulnerabilities, space deterrence became imperative.
Objectives of Mission Shakti
- To demonstrate India’s technological capability to intercept and destroy satellites.
- To secure India’s space assets from emerging threats.
- To enhance strategic deterrence in space-based security architecture.
- To strengthen India’s position in international space treaties and negotiations.
ASAT Missile System
Direct-Ascent Kinetic Kill ASAT:
- Involves launching a missile directly from the ground to destroy a satellite via kinetic impact (no explosives).
- Based on the Ballistic Missile Defense Interceptor platform developed by DRDO.
Key Components:
- Kill Vehicle:
- High-precision guidance system to track and collide with the satellite.
- Interceptor Missile:
- Modified version of India’s BMD Phase-I interceptor.
- Radar and Tracking Systems:
- Advanced ground-based sensors to track the satellite.
Agencies Involved
| Agency | Role |
|---|---|
| DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) | Lead developer of ASAT missile and radar systems |
| ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) | Assisted in satellite positioning, launch coordination |
Strategic Significance of Mission Shakti
1. National Security
- Protects India’s over 50 active satellites used for defense, navigation, and communication.
2. Strategic Deterrence
- Serves as a deterrent to adversaries planning attacks on Indian satellites.
3. Strengthened Negotiation Power
- Positions India as a key stakeholder in future international space security treaties.
4. Space Diplomacy
- Showcases India’s peaceful and responsible use of space technology.
Global Reactions and Legal Aspects
Reactions:
- USA:
- Acknowledged the test, emphasized the need for responsible behavior in space.
- China:
- Cautious reaction due to its 2007 ASAT test.
- Russia:
- Welcomed India’s peaceful intent.
- Pakistan:
- Expressed concern and called for global regulations.
International Laws Involved:
| Treaty | Provisions |
|---|---|
| Outer Space Treaty (1967) | Prohibits WMD in space, but no clear ban on conventional ASATs. India remains compliant. |
| Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space (PAROS) | Not yet a binding treaty; India advocates a consensus-based global framework. |
Global Context and Strategic Necessity
Satellites today are used for:
- Military communication
- Border surveillance
- Disaster management
- Navigation (e.g., GPS, IRNSS)
- Missile launch detection
Hence, space is a force multiplier in modern warfare. With countries like China’s ASAT test in 2007 destroying a satellite at
India’s Policy and Ethical Position
Despite the test, India remains committed to:
- No weaponization of space
- No first-use policy for ASATs
- Compliance with Outer Space Treaty (1967) norms
- Advocating for global space governance frameworks
ASAT Capabilities of Major Countries
| Country | Year of First ASAT Test | Method | Orbit Tested |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 1985 (re-tested 2008) | Kinetic | ~247 km |
| Russia | 1980s (ongoing tests) | Co-Orbital + Direct | ~500–1500 km |
| China | 2007 | Kinetic | ~865 km |
| India | 2019 | Kinetic Direct-Ascent | ~300 km |
India chose a lower orbit to minimize space debris — a decision praised by international space experts.
Concerns and Challenges
- Space Debris:
- While the test was conducted at a low orbit to ensure quick debris decay, ASAT tests can still generate hazardous fragments.
- Arms Race in Space:
- Potential trigger for global space militarization.
- Lack of Legal Framework:
- No comprehensive international treaty bans ASAT weapons.
- Ethical Dilemma:
- Destroys peaceful use of space and international trust.
- Strategic Backlash:
- May provoke adversaries to enhance their ASAT capabilities.
India’s Official Stand
- India maintains that it has no intention to weaponize space.
- The test was purely defensive in nature.
- It supports the peaceful use of outer space and calls for global regulation through consensus.
Conclusion
Mission Shakti is a watershed moment in India’s defense and space history. It not only exemplifies India’s growing technological capabilities but also reflects its commitment to responsible behavior in space. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the strategic, technological, and legal dimensions of Mission Shakti is essential for a well-rounded answer in both Mains and Interview stages.
FAQs
Q1. Is Mission Shakti an offensive move?
A: No, India has clarified that it was a deterrence-based and defensive capability demonstration.
Q2. Will it lead to an arms race in space?
A: There is a possibility, but India supports international cooperation for the peaceful use of outer space.
Q3. What makes the ASAT test different from missile tests?
A: Unlike ballistic missiles targeting Earth-based threats, ASATs target objects in space with extreme precision and kinetic impact.
Q4. Why is LEO chosen for the test?
A: Debris in LEO decays faster due to atmospheric drag, reducing the long-term threat.
Q5. Will there be more such missions?
A: India has not announced any further tests but is working on enhancing space situational awareness and satellite protection.
