India has taken another big step toward preparing for the future of warfare, and it’s happening in space—or at least, using space technology. This week, the Indian military conducted its second-ever series of space wargames, called ‘Antariksha Abhyas 2024’.
Although these drills didn’t actually take place in outer space, they were held at the Headquarters of the Integrated Defence Staff in New Delhi. Over three days, from Monday to Wednesday, military officials, scientists, and space experts worked together on tabletop exercises to simulate how space-based technology could be used to strengthen India’s defense.
Why Space Matters in Modern Warfare
“Space, once considered the final frontier, is now a critical enabler of defense and security,” said Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan at the start of the event. With advancements in space exploration and military capabilities, India is positioning itself as a leader in this new battlefield.
The wargames brought together personnel from the Defence Space Agency (DSA), which oversees India’s military operations in space, along with officials from the army, navy, and air force. Scientists from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) were also there, contributing their expertise.
The exercises were designed to explore how India’s “space-based assets and services”—such as satellites—can help the military. They also focused on identifying vulnerabilities, like what might happen if these technologies were targeted by hostile forces.
A Look at India’s Space Defense Journey
India’s journey into space warfare didn’t start yesterday. Back in 2008, the chief of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)—a military research agency—hinted that India already had the technology to create anti-satellite weapons.
By 2019, this became a reality. India successfully tested a missile that could destroy satellites in low-earth orbit, making it one of the few countries capable of such a feat. However, the test faced criticism from the US for creating space debris, despite the US having done a similar test in 2008.
Since then, India has been working on even more advanced space warfare technologies. These include directed-energy weapons, lasers, electromagnetic pulse (EMP) systems, and co-orbital weapons—all cutting-edge tools for future battles.
Learning From Experts
During Antariksha Abhyas 2024, military officials also met with academics and space technology experts. These experts shared their knowledge about current and future challenges in space defense. Their insights are crucial as space becomes an increasingly contested domain.
What’s Next?
India established the Defence Space Agency in 2018, a year before the US set up its Space Force. With every step, India is showing its commitment to becoming a major player in space defense.
By investing in wargames like Antariksha Abhyas 2024, India is not only safeguarding its space assets but also preparing for a future where conflicts could extend beyond Earth’s surface.
As space becomes a key part of global security, these exercises signal that India is ready to lead in the race to secure the final frontier.
