The exercise, organised by the Defence Space Agency under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, is designed to simulate potential threats to India’s space-based assets
India’s Defence Space Agency launched the country’s first-ever space-focused defence exercise, *Antariksha Abhyas 2024*, on Monday, aiming to bolster national security by addressing emerging threats to space assets and services. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Anil Chauhan inaugurated the exercise, which runs from November 11 to 13, emphasising that space is now a “critical enabler” for India’s defence and security operations.
The exercise, organised by the Defence Space Agency under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, is designed to simulate potential threats to India’s space-based assets, enhance the military’s operational readiness in space, and develop strategies to protect the country’s strategic objectives in the domain. The Ministry of Defence stated that *Antariksha Abhyas 2024* seeks to deepen understanding of space assets, operational dependencies, and potential vulnerabilities during disruptions or denials of space-based services.
In his opening address, Gen. Chauhan stressed that space, once seen as the final frontier, is now pivotal to national security. “With its rich legacy in space exploration and growing military capabilities, India is well-positioned to navigate the challenges posed to space-based capabilities,” he remarked. Highlighting the increasingly congested and contested nature of space, he called for strengthening India’s space security through innovation, collaboration with key partners like ISRO and DRDO, and the development of advanced technologies.
Participants in the exercise include personnel from the Defence Space Agency, Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with representatives from ISRO, DRDO, and specialist units like the Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Strategic Forces Command. Together, they will work to identify operational gaps and potential vulnerabilities in India’s space infrastructure and explore ways to integrate space capabilities across military operations.
*Antariksha Abhyas 2024* marks a significant step for India as it seeks to secure its interests in an era where space is critical to both national defence and global security, underscoring India’s commitment to safeguarding its space-based assets in collaboration with defence and scientific institutions.