Air Marshal's Perspective – Page 37 – CANDID AND TO THE POINT / काम की बात

August 2, 2025

712: EYES IN THE SKY: OPERATION SINDOOR SPURS INDIA’S SPACE DEFENCE SURGE

My Article was published in the “Life of Soldier” Journal, Aug 25.

In the wake of Operation Sindoor, conducted from May 7 to 10, 2025, India has launched an ambitious mission to enhance its space-based defence capabilities. The operation, a retaliatory strike against terror camps in Pakistan following the devastating Pahalgam attack on April 22, 2025, underscored the critical need for “deep” and “persistent” surveillance over adversarial territories. This necessity has prompted India to accelerate the deployment of 52 dedicated defence satellites under the Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) Phase-3 programme, which was approved in October 2024 with a budget of Rs 26,968 crore. Coupled with the finalisation of a comprehensive military space doctrine, India is poised to transform its strategic surveillance and defence framework, reducing reliance on foreign assets.

The Catalyst: Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor was a pivotal moment in India’s defence strategy, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of its current surveillance capabilities. The operation targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied territories, relying on satellite imagery from foreign providers. While these assets provided critical intelligence, the operation exposed India’s dependence on external sources for real-time, high-resolution imagery. This dependency posed risks, including delayed access to data and potential vulnerabilities in data security, especially during high-stakes military engagements.

The Pahalgam attack, which killed 29 people, including civilians and security personnel, revealed gaps in India’s ability to monitor cross-border activities with the granularity and persistence required for pre-emptive or retaliatory actions. The subsequent success of Operation Sindoor, while a tactical victory, emphasised the need for an indigenous, robust, and self-reliant space-based surveillance system. The operation’s reliance on foreign satellites underscored the urgency to develop a dedicated constellation capable of providing continuous, high-resolution coverage of strategic areas, including Pakistan, China, and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The Space-Based Surveillance (SBS) Phase-3 Programme

The Indian government had approved the SBS Phase-3 programme in October 2024, allocating Rs 26,968 crore to deploy 52 defence satellites. This ambitious initiative, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in collaboration with private industry, aims to establish a comprehensive space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) network by 2029. The programme is structured to leverage both public and private sector expertise, with ISRO tasked with launching 21 satellites and three private companies deploying the remaining 31. Key Features of the Programme are as follows:-

Satellite Constellation. The 52 satellites will operate in a mix of low Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary orbit (GEO). LEO satellites, positioned at altitudes between 500 and 900 km, will provide high-resolution imagery (up to 0.3 meters), ideal for detailed monitoring of military installations, troop movements, and infrastructure. GEO satellites, stationed at 36,000 km, will provide continuous wide-area coverage, which is critical for tracking maritime activities in the IOR and monitoring large-scale developments along India’s borders.

Technological Capabilities. The satellites will be equipped with advanced synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and electro-optical sensors, enabling all-weather, day-and-night imaging. SAR systems are exceptionally vital for penetrating cloud cover and monitoring during adverse weather conditions, a frequent challenge in regions like the Himalayas. The constellation will also incorporate secure communication links to ensure real-time data transmission to ground stations and military command centers.

Public-Private Partnership. The involvement of private companies marks a significant shift in India’s space strategy. Companies like Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, and startups such as Pixxel and Skyroot Aerospace are expected to contribute to satellite manufacturing and launch services. This collaboration aims to accelerate deployment, reduce costs, and foster innovation in India’s burgeoning private space sector.

Timeline and Deployment. The first satellite launch is scheduled for April 2026, with the entire constellation expected to be operational by 2029. The phased rollout will prioritise coverage of high-threat areas, including the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, before expanding to broader regional surveillance.

Strategic Imperatives

The SBS Phase-3 programme is driven by India’s need to counter growing regional security challenges. China’s expansive space program, with over 1,000 satellites, including advanced ISR and anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities, poses a significant threat. Beijing’s ability to disrupt or destroy satellites, demonstrated by its 2007 ASAT test, underscores the need for India to develop resilient and redundant space assets. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has integrated space-based ISR into its military doctrine, enabling precise targeting and real-time battlefield awareness, as seen in its activities along the LAC.

Pakistan, while less advanced in space technology, relies on Chinese support for its satellite capabilities, including the Pakistan Remote Sensing Satellite (PRSS-1). The growing China-Pakistan nexus necessitates enhanced surveillance to monitor joint military exercises, infrastructure development (e.g., the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor), and potential terror activities emanating from Pakistani territory.

The IOR, a critical maritime domain, is another focus area. With China’s increasing naval presence and the strategic importance of chokepoints like the Malacca Strait, India requires persistent surveillance to safeguard its maritime interests and counter piracy, smuggling, and hostile naval operations.

Complementary Initiatives: HAPS and Beyond

In addition to the satellite programme, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is pursuing three high-altitude platform systems (HAPS) aircraft to complement space-based ISR. These solar-powered, unmanned platforms, operating at altitudes of 18-20 km, can remain airborne for weeks, providing persistent surveillance over specific areas. HAPS aircraft are particularly suited for monitoring border regions and can serve as a cost-effective alternative to satellites for localised ISR missions.

The IAF is also exploring the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to process vast amounts of satellite data. AI-driven analytics can identify patterns, detect anomalies, and provide actionable intelligence in real time, enhancing India’s ability to respond to threats swiftly.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the SBS Phase-3 programme and the military space doctrine represent a significant leap forward, challenges remain. The ambitious timeline requires seamless coordination between ISRO, private companies, and the military, which could face delays due to technical complexities or funding constraints. The private sector’s relative inexperience in defence-grade satellite manufacturing may also pose risks to quality and reliability.

Moreover, the global space environment is increasingly contested, with space debris and ASAT threats complicating satellite operations. India must invest in space situational awareness (SSA) capabilities to monitor and mitigate these risks. International norms on space militarisation, which are still in their infancy, could also impact India’s plans, necessitating diplomatic efforts to safeguard its interests.

On the opportunity front, the programme positions India as a significant space power, fostering technological innovation and economic growth through the private space sector. The public-private partnership model could serve as a blueprint for future defence projects, reducing costs and enhancing efficiency. Additionally, the doctrine’s focus on international cooperation opens avenues for technology transfers and strategic alliances, strengthening India’s geopolitical standing.

Conclusion

Operation Sindoor served as a wake-up call for India, highlighting the indispensable role of space-based surveillance in modern warfare. The SBS Phase-3 programme, with its 52 dedicated defence satellites, and the forthcoming military space doctrine mark a transformative step toward self-reliance and strategic dominance in the space domain. By addressing regional threats, leveraging public-private partnerships, and integrating advanced technologies like HAPS and AI, India is poised to secure its borders, maritime interests, and national security.

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Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

References:-

Times of India (ToI). (2025). “India to Fast-Track 52 Defence Satellites After Operation Sindoor.”
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). (2024). “Space-Based Surveillance Phase-3 Programme Overview
Ministry of Defence, Government of India. (2024). “Approval of Rs 26,968 Crore for Defence Satellite Programme.” Press Release, October 2024.
Defence Space Agency (DSA). (2019). “Mission Shakti and India’s Anti-Satellite Capabilities.” Government of India.
Jane’s Defence Weekly. (2025). “India’s High-Altitude Platform System (HAPS) Acquisition for ISR Missions.”
Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). (2024). “China’s Space Programme and Anti-Satellite Capabilities.” SIPRI Yearbook 2024.
Observer Research Foundation (ORF). (2025). “India’s Military Space Doctrine: A Strategic Roadmap.”
The Hindu. (2025). “Operation Sindoor: India’s Response to Pahalgam Attack.” May 12, 2025.
SpaceNews. (2024). “India’s Private Space Sector: Emerging Players in Defence Satellite Manufacturing.”
Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). (2024). “Space Situational Awareness and the Contested Space Environment.”

July 27, 2025July 27, 2025

711: LOW-COST, HIGH-IMPACT LUCAS KAMIKAZE DRONE: AMERICA’S ANSWER TO MODERN AERIAL WARFARE

My Article published on “The EurasianTimes” website on 28 Jul 25

On July 16, 2025, the United States Department of Defence revealed the Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (LUCAS) during an exhibition of autonomous systems at the Pentagon courtyard, attended by Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth. Developed by Spectreworks, based in Arizona, LUCAS is designed to counter the escalating threat of loitering munitions. The system aims to facilitate distributed operations, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, in light of rising concerns over Chinese drone activities near Japan. Considerable interest has been expressed regarding its development, design, capabilities, and strategic significance.

Genesis. The emergence of the LUCAS drone is not a coincidence. It is a direct response to the transformation of modern warfare driven by the global proliferation of low-cost kamikaze drones. Iran’s Shahed-136, a delta-wing kamikaze drone, has served as a notable example, utilised by Russia in Ukraine and by Iran-backed groups in the Middle East to precisely target objectives at a significantly reduced cost compared to traditional munitions. The low cost and extended range of the Shahed-136 exposed a gap in Western arsenals, which have historically depended on expensive, reusable platforms such as the MQ-9 Reaper. The United States’ response materialised as the LUCAS system, a three-category UAS (capable of carrying up to 600 kg and operating at altitudes reaching 5,500 meters).

Analytical Perspective

LUCAS’s design exhibits both visual and functional similarities to the Shahed-136, showcasing a triangular delta-wing configuration optimised for long-range loitering. Nonetheless, it differs significantly in terms of engineering and versatility. Powered by a two-cylinder DA-215 engine (215 cm³), LUCAS contrasts with the Shahed’s four-cylinder Limbach L550E clone, providing enhanced fuel efficiency and a reduced acoustic signature. Its modular and open architecture accommodates various payloads, including reconnaissance sensors, electronic warfare modules, and explosive warheads, thereby facilitating adaptability to a wide range of mission profiles.

The drone’s adaptability constitutes a fundamental advantage. LUCAS accommodates various launch methods, including Rocket-Assisted Take-Off (RATO) and truck-based deployment, thereby facilitating rapid utilisation by personnel with limited specialisation. In contrast to the single-use Shahed-136, LUCAS can be reused in specific configurations, such as reconnaissance missions, thereby improving its cost efficiency. It operates on 28V and 12V power supplies, supporting a wide range of payloads. Its Multi-domain Unmanned Systems Communications (MUSIC) mesh network enables autonomous swarm operations and network-centric strikes. Additionally, this network permits LUCAS to serve as a communication relay, a vital capability in contested environments where conventional communication channels may be disrupted.

The LUCAS system is estimated to cost approximately $100,000 per unit, which is markedly more economical than traditional United States drones, thus aligning with the Pentagon’s objectives regarding cost efficiency. Following successful testing, its readiness for production positions it for swift deployment alongside U.S. and allied forces, particularly in contexts that demand scalable, cost-effective strike capabilities. It embodies a harmonious combination of affordability, lethality, and adaptability. The swarm capabilities, facilitated through the MUSIC network, enable coordinated assaults capable of overwhelming adversary defences. Furthermore, its modular design extends its functional utility beyond kamikaze operations to include roles such as intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).

The strategic significance of the drone is enhanced by its alignment with the United States’ defence priorities. In the Indo-Pacific region, where China’s expanding drone capabilities present a threat, LUCAS offers an economical countermeasure for distributed operations over extensive distances. Its capacity to operate autonomously or in swarms diminishes dependence on vulnerable centralised command structures, thus making it suitable for contested environments. Furthermore, its truck-mounted launch system enhances mobility, allowing for swift deployment from forward bases or allied territories.

Lucas’s introduction holds significance extending beyond the United States’ borders. Allies within NATO, the Indo-Pacific, and the Middle East, who are confronting comparable drone threats, are expected to demonstrate interest in procuring or jointly producing similar systems. Its cost-effectiveness and adaptability render it an appealing choice for nations that cannot afford advanced platforms such as the F-35 or MQ-9.

India’s Solutions for Low-Cost, High-Impact Drone Warfare

India, confronting analogous drone threats across its borders, has undertaken the development of its own economical yet impactful solutions for contemporary aerial warfare. A key component of India’s strategic response is the creation of indigenous loitering munitions, including the ALFA-S (Air-Launched Flexible Asset – Swarm), Nagastra-1, and the Tactical Advanced Platform for Aerial Surveillance (TAPAS-BH-201). Engineered with an emphasis on cost-effectiveness and scalability, these systems reflect the strategic principles underpinning America’s LUCAS.

Nagastra-1 is a domestically produced, man-portable loitering munition, often referred to as a “kamikaze drone.” Developed by Economic Explosives Limited, a subsidiary of Solar Industries, in collaboration with Z-Motion Autonomous Systems, it is engineered for reconnaissance missions and precision strikes, particularly in asymmetric operational environments.

ALFA-S, or Air-Launched Flexible Asset – Swarm, is an Indian project focused on developing a swarm of drones that can be launched from aircraft or ground launchers. It is part of the larger Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) initiative by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in collaboration with NewSpace Research and Technologies. These drones are designed to operate autonomously, potentially performing tasks like high-altitude surveillance and precision strikes.

TAPAS-BH-201, also called Rustom-II, is an Indian MALE UAV created by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment. It is built for surveillance and reconnaissance tasks.

India is also advancing its counter-drone capabilities through initiatives such as the DRDO’s D-4 Drone System. The D4 anti-drone system would constitute a comprehensive solution for detecting, tracking, and neutralising unauthorised drones, including micro and small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). It would employ a combination of radar, radio frequency detection, and electro-optical/infrared sensors for threat identification, and utilise both ‘soft kill’ methods, such as RF and GNSS jamming, as well as ‘hard kill’ techniques, including laser-based directed energy weapons, for neutralisation. The system would be engineered for deployment in both stationary and vehicle-mounted configurations.

Conclusion

The LUCAS kamikaze drone signifies a fundamental transformation in the United States’ defence strategy, responding to the worldwide proliferation of low-cost, high-impact aerial systems such as Iran’s Shahed-136. By integrating affordability, modular design, and sophisticated swarm functionalities through the MUSIC network, LUCAS offers a flexible solution for contemporary warfare, particularly in contested regions such as the Indo-Pacific. Its strategic congruence with cost-effective, attritable platforms strengthens the capacity of U.S. and allied forces to counter emerging drone threats. In a similar vein, India’s progress with systems such as Nagastra-1ALFA-S and TAPAS-BH-201 demonstrates a parallel dedication to innovative, scalable drone technologies. These initiatives highlight a global tendency toward economical, network-enabled systems that reinvent aerial combat. They not only address essential capability deficiencies but also herald a future where adaptable, distributed operational methods prevail, ensuring resilience against evolving threats.

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“Shocking Replica” Of Iranian UAV, Is U.S.’ Low-Cost, High-Impact LUCAS Derived From Shahed-136 Drone?

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References:–

Army Recognition. “US Unveils LUCAS Kamikaze Drone to Counter Iran’s Shahed-136.” Army Recognition, July 17, 2025.

Defence Blog. “SpektreWorks’ LUCAS Drone Enters Production to Bolster US Capabilities.” Defence Blog, July 18, 2025.

Janes. “US Department of Defence Accelerates Attritable Drone Programs with LUCAS.” Jane’s Defence Weekly, July 19, 2025.

The Drive. “LUCAS: America’s New Loitering Munition to Counter Drone Threats.” The War Zone, July 16, 2025.

Breaking Defence. “Pentagon’s Hegseth Pushes for Expendable Drones with LUCAS as Model.” Breaking Defence, July 20, 2025.

SpektreWorks. “LUCAS: Low-Cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System.” SpektreWorks Official Website, July 2025.

Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). “The Rise of Attritable Drones: Implications for US Defence Strategy.” CSIS Briefs, August 2024

International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). “Shahed-136 and the Global Proliferation of Loitering Munitions.” IISS Military Balance Blog, March 2025

U.S. Department of Defence. “DoD Directive on Unmanned Systems Acquisition and Classification.” July 2025.

Business Insider. (2025, July 18). A new American drone that showed up at the Pentagon looks a lot like the Shaheds Russia uses to bomb Ukraine.

The Economic Times. (2025, July 18). Did the US just clone Iran’s Shahed? All about LUCAS, America’s ‘cheap and deadly’ kamikaze drone.

BEL India. (n.d.). Anti-Drone System. Bharat Electronics Limited.

Economic Times. (2025, May 10). Bhargavastra: Watch India test low-cost drone killer that destroys swarms in seconds—The Economic Times.

HAL India. (n.d.). CATS – Combat Air Teaming System. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

Times of India. (2025, June 14). The Army orders 450 Nagastra-1R loitering munitions; SDAL touts reusable, precision-strike capabilities. The Times of India.

July 24, 2025

710: SHAHEEN-3 MISSILE TEST FAILURE: A WAKE-UP CALL FOR PAKISTAN’S MISSILE PROGRAM

My article was published on “The EurasianTimes” website

on 24 Jul 25.

On July 22, 2025, Pakistan’s ambitious ballistic missile program experienced a notable setback and its strategic defence landscape was jolted, by the high-profile failure of its Shaheen-3 ballistic missile test. The incident, occurring near civilian settlements and in dangerously proximity to a primary nuclear site, has drawn national and international attention, not only over the technical reliability of Pakistan’s missile program but also concerning the safety of local populations and the geopolitical stability of South Asia.

The Missile. The Shaheen-III, developed by Pakistan’s National Development Complex (NDC) in collaboration with the National Engineering and Scientific Commission (NESCOM), constitutes a fundamental component of the nation’s strategic defence capabilities. With an asserted range of 2,750 kilometers, this missile is engineered to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads, thereby ranking among Pakistan’s most sophisticated systems. Its development is regarded as a strategic response to India’s expanding missile capabilities, including the Agni series, and aims to maintain deterrence within the volatile security environment of South Asia. The missile’s capacity to reach targets over an extensive geographical area highlights its strategic importance.

The Incident. The Shaheen-3 was launched from the Dera Ghazi Khan region in Punjab. According to multiple credible reports, the missile deviated from its planned trajectory shortly after launch and crashed in the Matt area of Dera Bugti district in Balochistan. The impact site was alarmingly close, approximately 500 meters, to civilian settlements and within the vicinity of a significant nuclear facility. Residents reported a powerful explosion near the Loop Seharani Levies Station, which was heard 20–50 kilometers away. Shockwaves of concern rippled through nearby communities, leading to scenes of panic and evacuation as locals rushed to distance themselves from a potential disaster. Social media platforms circulated videos and messages depicting the chaos.

Local Reaction. Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a brief statement acknowledging the test but maintained that all safety standards were followed. The statement, however, lacked specifics about the cause of the failure or the environmental impact of the crash. This opacity has fuelled speculation and criticism, both domestically and internationally. Analysts point out that the absence of transparent reporting on such incidents undermines public confidence in Pakistan’s missile program and raises questions about the technical reliability of the Shaheen-III.

Safety and Security Concerns. The close call between the missile crash and a densely populated area, combined with the proximity to critical nuclear infrastructure, has highlighted serious safety and security vulnerabilities. Given Balochistan’s historical sensitivity due to both its restive population and strategic assets, the event stoked local and national anxieties about the risks associated with missile tests conducted in such areas. While there were no immediate reports of casualties, the potential for significant harm was evident. The magnitude of the blast, the risk of radioactive contamination, and the psychological fear instilled in the local population have all contributed to widespread condemnation and calls for more responsible test protocols.

Technical Reliability and Pattern of Failures. What makes this incident particularly concerning is its apparent repeat of past failures. Reports indicate that previous Shaheen-3 tests, including those in 2023, also resulted in accidents near nuclear or sensitive military infrastructure. This pattern of technical shortcomings raises fundamental questions over the actual operational reliability of Pakistan’s most far-reaching missile.

Reinforcement of US concerns. The timing of the failure is notably significant, occurring merely months after the United States imposed sanctions in December 2024 on entities associated with Pakistan’s ballistic missile program. The United States expressed concerns regarding proliferation risks and the potential for missile technology to destabilise the region. This unsuccessful test is likely to intensify these concerns, supplying additional argumentation to critics who contend that Pakistan’s missile development suffers from insufficient oversight and technical maturity.

Strategic Significance. The Shaheen-3 is considered a central pillar of Pakistan’s deterrence strategy, designed to ensure that all major cities in India and beyond are within striking distance. The reliability of such a strategic asset is therefore crucial, not merely for defence planners in Islamabad but also for regional actors who closely monitor each development as part of a delicate balance of power. Its recent failures have reignited debate over the safety of ongoing missile development and testing in densely inhabited or strategically sensitive regions. The risk of sparking a larger geopolitical crisis, either by accident or escalation, is heightened whenever flaws in command, control, or technical functioning come to light. The failure of the Shaheen-3 test not only undermines the credibility of this deterrence strategy but also raises questions about the effectiveness of Pakistan’s missile program.

The Shaheen-III test failure is likely to have far-reaching consequences. For Pakistan, it represents a setback in its quest for a credible deterrent against regional rivals. For the international community, it underscores the challenges of managing proliferation risks in a region marked by intense strategic competition. It serves as a stark reminder of the serious risks associated with the testing and deployment of advanced ballistic missile technology in volatile environments. It exposes both persistent technical challenges and deep-rooted concerns over transparency and public safety. The incident has reignited discussion on the necessity of responsible stewardship over strategic assets, especially those capable of influencing the delicate balance of peace and security in the region, highlighting the importance of the issue.

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“Shockwaves” In Balochistan As Pakistan’s Nuclear-Capable Missile Crashes Near Nuclear Site; Shaheen-III Failure Sparks Concerns

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References:-

1.News Reports & Regional Media Coverage, The Balochistan Post (July 23, 2025), “Missile crash incident near Dera Bugti triggers panic among locals”

2.Associated Press. (2024, December 20). U.S. Imposes Sanctions on Entities Linked to Pakistan’s Ballistic Missile Program.

3.Dawn News. (2025, July 23). Shaheen-III Missile Test Fails, Crashes in Dera Bugti. Dawn.

4.Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). (2025, July 22). Official Statement on Shaheen-III Test Launch.

5.Khan, A. (2025, July 23). Local Residents Report Tremors, Debris from Missile Crash in Balochistan. The News International.