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.
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