The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has approved Phase III of India’s Space-Based Surveillance (SBS-III) initiative.

• The Space Based Surveillance 3 mission will be strengthened by India’s purchase of 31 Predator drones from the US, collaboration with France on military satellites, and anti-satellite missile capabilities.

About Space Based Surveillance (SBS) Mission

• The project involves launching 52 spy satellites in low Earth and geostationary orbits.
• Purpose and Importance:
  • The project aims to enhance India’s space surveillance capabilities for national security.
  • The National Security Council Secretariat and the Defence Space Agency under the Ministry of Defence are managing the SBS mission.
  • Each branch of the armed forces (Army, Navy, Air Force) will have dedicated satellites for their specific operations.
  • Previous Phases of SBS:
    • SBS 1 was launched in 2001 with four satellites, such as Cartosat 2A, Cartosat 2B, Eros B and Risat 2.
      • It was initiated in 2001 under Vajpayee government. 
    • SBS 2 was introduced  in 2013 with the launch of six satellites like Cartosat 2C, Cartosat 2D, Cartosat 3A, Cartosat 3B, Microsat 1 and Risat 2A

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Benefits of the SBS-III Initiative

• Enhanced Satellite Detection: The new satellites will use advanced technology and artificial intelligence to detect and track satellites in space more accurately.
• Improved Data Analysis: The satellites will use data-driven approaches to analyze information more efficiently.
• Round-the-Clock Monitoring: SBS-III satellites will operate continuously, unaffected by weather or atmospheric conditions, providing constant surveillance of objects in space.
• Enhanced National Security: This will help to protect its satellites and space assets from threats.
• Support for Armed Forces: The satellites will support the specific operations and missions of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

Disadvantages of the SBS-III Initiative

• High Cost: The project is estimated to cost around Rs 27,000 crore.
• Technological Challenges: Launching and maintaining 52 satellites is a complex undertaking.
• Dependency on Foreign Technology: The purchase of Predator drones from the U.S. could increase India’s dependence on foreign technology.
• Potential for Misuse: The satellites could be used for offensive purposes.