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648: SAINT MARTIN’S ISLAND: A STRATEGIC GEM IN THE BAY OF BENGAL

 

My article published on the IIRF website

on 14 Apr 25.

 

Nestled in the northeastern Bay of Bengal, Saint Martin’s Island, known locally as Narikel Jinjira or Daruchini Dwip, is a small coral island spanning just three square kilometers. This unassuming landmass holds outsized geopolitical significance, located approximately nine kilometers south of Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf peninsula and eight kilometers west of Myanmar’s northwest coast. Despite its modest size and population of around 3,700, the island’s strategic location near critical maritime routes and its proximity to the Bangladesh-Myanmar maritime border have drawn the attention of regional and global powers, including the United States, China, India, and others.

 

Historical Context and Sovereignty

Saint Martin’s Island has a rich history intertwined with regional geopolitics. Millennia ago, it was an extension of the Teknaf peninsula, but rising sea levels submerged parts of the land, creating the island as it exists today. Named after Saint Martin by British colonial authorities in the 19th century, it was previously called Jazira by Arabian merchants who settled there in the 18th century. The island became part of British India in 1900, Pakistan after the 1947 partition, and Bangladesh following its independence in 1971. A 1974 agreement between Bangladesh and Myanmar, later affirmed by the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in 2012, solidified Bangladesh’s sovereignty over the island, despite occasional tensions with Myanmar over maritime boundaries.

The island’s economy is modest, primarily driven by fishing, rice cultivation, coconut farming, and seaweed harvesting. Tourism is gaining traction due to its pristine beaches and coral reefs. However, its strategic value far outweighs its economic contributions, making it a focal point in South Asian geopolitics.

 

Strategic Location in the Bay of Bengal

Saint Martin’s Island’s location is its most defining asset. Situated near the mouth of the Naf River and close to the maritime boundary between Bangladesh and Myanmar, it lies at the crossroads of vital sea lanes in the Bay of Bengal. The bay is a critical maritime zone connecting the Indian Ocean with Southeast Asia and serving as a gateway to the Indo-Pacific. It hosts some of the world’s busiest shipping routes, including those passing through the Strait of Malacca, a chokepoint for global trade, particularly for energy supplies. Control over Saint Martin’s Island offers a vantage point for monitoring maritime traffic, conducting surveillance, and projecting naval power in this strategically significant region.

The island’s proximity to the Matarbari Deepsea Port, currently under development in Bangladesh with Japanese investment, further amplifies its importance. The port is set to enhance Bangladesh’s role in regional trade, and Saint Martin’s Island could serve as a complementary outpost for securing maritime routes. Additionally, the island falls within Bangladesh’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), granting access to marine resources like fish, oil, and gas, which adds an economic dimension to its strategic value.

 

Environmental and Economic Significance

Beyond its geopolitical role, Saint Martin’s Island is an ecologically sensitive area. As Bangladesh’s only coral island, it supports diverse marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and various fish species. However, environmental degradation poses a threat—studies estimate that 70% of its coral reefs were lost between 1980 and 2018 due to anthropogenic factors like overfishing and pollution. Conservation efforts are critical to preserving this biodiversity, which also underpins the island’s tourism potential and fishing-based economy.

Tourism is a growing sector, with the island attracting visitors for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. However, a nine-month tourist restriction starting February 1, 2025, has been imposed to address environmental concerns and regional tensions, particularly with Myanmar. The island’s isolation during the rainy season, when rough seas cut off access to the mainland, underscores its vulnerability and strategic significance as a self-contained outpost.

 

Interests of World Powers

The Bay of Bengal has emerged as a theater of great power competition, and Saint Martin’s Island is a pawn in this geopolitical chessboard. The interests of major powers—particularly the United States, China, and India—stem from the region’s growing importance in global trade and security.

United States. The United States views the Bay of Bengal as a critical component of its Indo-Pacific Strategy, aimed at countering China’s growing influence. Allegations by former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024 suggested that the U.S. sought control over Saint Martin’s Island to establish a military base or airbase, a claim denied by Washington. Such a presence would allow the U.S. to monitor Chinese naval activities, secure shipping lanes, and strengthen its strategic posture in the Indo-Pacific. The island’s proximity to the Strait of Malacca makes it an ideal site for surveillance and power projection. While the U.S. has officially dismissed these claims, the island’s strategic value aligns with its broader objectives, including partnerships like the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) with India, Japan, and Australia.

China. China’s expanding presence in the Indian Ocean, driven by its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has heightened its interest in the Bay of Bengal. Beijing has invested heavily in regional infrastructure, including Bangladesh’s Cox’s Bazar port and a submarine base near Dhaka. Saint Martin’s Island could be a strategic foothold for China to monitor maritime routes and counter U.S. and Indian influence. Reports of Chinese intelligence facilities on Myanmar’s Coco Island, near the Strait of Malacca, underscore Beijing’s ambitions in the region. Control over Saint Martin’s Island would enhance China’s ability to project power and secure its energy imports, which rely heavily on these sea lanes.

India. As a regional power, India is vested in maintaining influence over the Bay of Bengal, which it considers part of its strategic backyard. Saint Martin’s Island’s proximity to India’s Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a key military outpost, makes it a concern. India is wary of foreign powers—particularly China or the U.S.—establishing a presence on the island, which could undermine its regional dominance. New Delhi has supported Bangladesh’s sovereignty over the island and provided economic and military assistance to counterbalance Chinese influence. Any foreign control over Saint Martin’s Island could serve as a “checkpoint” for India’s maritime activities, heightening tensions.

Other Actors. Myanmar’s proximity to Saint Martin’s Island has led to occasional tensions, including cross-border firing and disputes over maritime boundaries. The ongoing conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State, involving the Arakan Army, has spilled over into the island’s waters, raising security concerns for Bangladesh. Japan’s investment in the Matarbari port also reflects its interest in the region’s economic potential, which is indirectly tied to the island’s strategic location.

 

Geopolitical Tensions and Allegations. Saint Martin’s Island has been at the center of political controversies in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina’s 2024 claims that her ouster was linked to U.S. pressure over the island sparked widespread debate. She alleged that foreign powers sought to lease or control the island, a narrative her son later disputed. These accusations reflect the island’s role as a lightning rod for sovereignty, foreign influence, and regional security discussions.

 

Conclusion

Saint Martin’s Island may be small, but its strategic location in the Bay of Bengal makes it a coveted prize for world powers. Its proximity to vital maritime routes, economic potential, and environmental significance amplify its importance in a region of great power competition. The United States, China, and India, among others, recognise the island’s value as a potential outpost for surveillance, power projection, and securing trade routes. For Bangladesh, maintaining sovereignty over Saint Martin’s Island is a matter of national pride and a strategic necessity. As geopolitical tensions rise in the Indo-Pacific, this tiny coral gem will likely remain a focal point of intrigue and contestation, underscoring the complex interplay of power, sovereignty, and strategy in the modern world.

 

Please Add Value to the write-up with your views on the subject.

 

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Saint Martin’s Island: A Strategic Gem in the Bay Of Bengal (by Air Marshal Anil Khosla)

 

References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pics Courtesy: Internet

Disclaimer:

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:-

  1. Online Research Foundation (ORF), Article: “St. Martin’s Island: A new flashpoint in the Bay of Bengal?” August 21, 2024.
  1. The Financial Express, “St. Martin’s Island: A strategic jewel in the Bay of Bengal – Explained”, August 12, 2024.
  1. India Today, “All about St Martin’s Island, its geopolitical importance amid Bangladesh crisis”, August 11, 2024.
  1. Business Today, “The island that toppled a government: Was Sheikh Hasina ousted over this tiny coral gem in the Bay of Bengal?” August 12, 2024.
  1. ETV Bharat, “Explained | Hasina And The Geostrategic Importance Of St Martin Island In Bangladesh”, August 11, 2024.
  1. Firstpost, “Bangladesh crisis: What could the US gain from acquiring St. Martin’s Island?” August 11, 2024.
  1. The Indian Express, “What is Bangladesh’s St Martin’s Island, under spotlight after Sheikh Hasina’s resignation?”, August 15, 2024.
  1. Moneycontrol, “St Martin’s in Bangladesh: Did this island lead to Sheikh Hasina’s downfall?” August 11, 2024
  2. ABP Live, “St Martin’s Island: Why This Tiny Island In Bangladesh Is Under Spotlight After Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster”, August 11, 2024.
  1. The Business Standard, “Bangladesh strategically vital in Indo-Pacific”, February 28, 2022
  1. Eurasia Review, “Bangladesh’s Balancing Politics with Big Powers in Strategic Bay Of Bengal – OpEd”, December 28, 2021
  1. War on the Rocks, “The Bay of Bengal Could Be the Key to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific”, June 17, 2022
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608: THE EVOLVING AVIATION MRO INDUSTRY AND INDIA’S OPPORTUNITY

 

My article was published in the Mar 25 issue of Life of Soldier Journal.

 

India’s aviation Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) market is witnessing rapid growth, driven by increasing air travel demand, expanding airline fleets, and government initiatives promoting domestic MRO services. As airlines seek cost-effective maintenance solutions, India’s strategic location and skilled workforce position it as a potential global MRO hub. However, high taxation, infrastructure gaps, and regulatory hurdles hinder its full potential. With policy reforms, investment in advanced facilities, and collaboration with global players, India can transform its MRO sector into a key driver of the aviation industry. This article explores India’s MRO market’s growth, challenges, and opportunities.

 

Key Players in the Aviation MRO Industry

 

The Aviation Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) industry comprises airlines, independent MRO providers, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), and specialised component repair firms. These entities offer a wide range of services, from routine maintenance to complex overhauls, ensuring the safety and reliability of aircraft worldwide.

 

Airlines with In-House MRO Capabilities. Many airlines operate MRO divisions to maintain their fleets and offer third-party services. Lufthansa Technik, a subsidiary of Lufthansa Group, is one of the largest MRO providers globally, offering airframe maintenance, engine services, and component support. Similarly, Delta TechOps, the MRO arm of Delta Air Lines, provides maintenance services for Delta’s fleet and other airlines. Another major player, Air France Industries KLM Engineering & Maintenance (AFI KLM E&M), services various aircraft and engines, offering component maintenance and logistics support.

 

Independent MRO Providers. Independent MRO companies operate globally, serving airlines and aircraft operators. ST Engineering Aerospace, based in Singapore, provides airframe, engine, component maintenance, and cabin refurbishments. AAR Corp, a U.S.-based provider, offers component repair, logistics, and airframe maintenance for commercial and defence sectors. HAECO (Hong Kong Aircraft Engineering Company Limited) specialises in airframe maintenance, component services, and cabin solutions.

 

Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). OEMs have expanded into the MRO sector to support their aircraft and components. Boeing Global Services offers maintenance, parts, and digital solutions for Boeing aircraft. Airbus Services provides technical support and training for Airbus operators, focusing on predictive maintenance. GE Aviation specialises in engine MRO services, offering maintenance solutions for both its own and other manufacturers’ engines. Rolls-Royce TotalCare provides comprehensive engine maintenance under long-term service agreements.

 

Specialised Component and Engine MRO Providers. Several companies focus on specific components and engines. MTU Aero Engines, based in Germany, provides engine MRO services for commercial and military aircraft. StandardAero offers engine and airframe MRO services for commercial and business aviation. SIA Engineering Company, based in Singapore, partners with multiple OEMs to enhance its service offerings.

 

Regional MRO Providers. Many regional providers cater to specific markets. Turkish Technic offers airframe, engine, and component maintenance and aircraft modifications. Joramco, based in Jordan, provides airframe and component maintenance for various aircraft. GAMECO (Guangzhou Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Company), a Chinese MRO provider, specialises in airframe, component, and engine services.

 

Emerging and Niche Players. Smaller MRO providers are expanding their presence. Based in Estonia, Magnetic MRO provides line and base maintenance, engineering, and asset management services. FL Technics, a European-based provider, offers line and base maintenance and component support, primarily serving airlines in Europe, Asia, and the CIS region.

 

Digital and Data-Driven MRO Service Providers. Digital transformation is reshaping the MRO industry. Based in Switzerland, SR Technics integrates digital solutions and data analytics for predictive maintenance. Lufthansa Technik’s Aviatar platform provides predictive maintenance and technical asset management to improve operational efficiency.

 

Collaborative Ventures and Alliances. Partnerships between MRO providers and OEMs enhance service capabilities. AFI KLM E&M and Boeing collaborate to provide component support and maintenance solutions for Boeing 787 aircraft. TAP Maintenance & Engineering partners with OEMs to improve its servicing capabilities.

 

Aviation Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) India

 

India’s aviation sector is expanding remarkably, positioning the country as one of the largest aviation markets in the world. With rising air travel demand, the MRO industry is expected to witness significant growth, projected to reach a value of around $1 billion by 2025. The increasing number of domestic and international flights, the rise of low-cost carriers, and the burgeoning middle class are major contributors to this growth. Airlines are prioritising maintenance and repair services to ensure operational efficiency and safety.

 

Key Indian Players. Several key players dominate the Indian MRO industry, each contributing to its development. Air India Engineering Services Limited (AIESL), a subsidiary of Air India, provides comprehensive MRO services for both Air India and third-party airlines, offering airframe maintenance and component support. The Indira Gandhi Institute of Aeronautics (IGIA) plays a crucial role in workforce training through its partnerships with airlines and MRO providers. GMR Aero Technic, a part of the GMR Group, operates from Hyderabad and offers maintenance, repair, and overhaul services. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a state-owned entity, specialises in aircraft maintenance, particularly for military aircraft. The TATA Group has entered the MRO sector through TATA Advanced Systems, focusing on military and commercial aircraft maintenance.

 

Challenges Faced by the MRO Industry in India. Despite its promising growth, the Indian MRO sector faces several challenges. Infrastructure development remains a significant issue, as many MRO facilities require upgrades to meet global standards. The industry also suffers from a shortage of skilled technicians and engineers, necessitating targeted efforts to attract and train talent. High import duties on aircraft spare parts increase costs for MRO providers, making it challenging to source necessary materials at competitive rates. Additionally, navigating complex regulatory compliance requirements can be resource-intensive for MRO operators. The following factors collectively hamper the growth of an indigenous MRO industry, making Indian airlines reliant on foreign facilities for maintenance.

 

    • OEM Aftermarket Monopoly. Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) dominate the aftermarket, restricting independent MRO players through intellectual property (IP) control, high consultancy fees, and restrictions on direct part sales. OEMs also use pricing strategies and exclusive contracts to limit competition.
    • Contractual & Offset Clause Issues – Airlines and OEMs impose conditions in aircraft purchase/leasing deals, such as mandatory maintenance at designated (often foreign) MRO facilities. Offset clauses, especially in defence aviation, usually remain unimplemented, limiting local MRO capabilities.
    • Infrastructure Shortcomings. Limited land allocation for airport MRO hangars increases logistics costs. Training infrastructure is also inadequate, with many institutes lacking access to aircraft for hands-on learning.
    • Lack of Access to Credit. MRO is capital-intensive, and post-pandemic financial strains have made credit access difficult. High collateral demands further restrict expansion.
    • Post-pandemic Demand-Supply Mismatch. While India anticipated MRO growth, post-2021 tax reforms, oversupply due to global pandemic disruptions, and supply chain constraints had hindered expected expansion.
    • Taxation & Duty Issues. Despite the reduction of GST on MRO services, high tax rates on spare parts deter growth. Complex customs classifications also result in excessive duties, while the inverted duty structure discourages local manufacturing. Additionally, Indian airports charge royalties on MRO revenue, increasing operational costs.

 

Emerging Trends. Several emerging trends are shaping the future of the Indian MRO industry. The government has proactively supported this sector through initiatives like the National Civil Aviation Policy and the “Make in India” campaign, which encourage domestic manufacturing and services. Digital transformation is another key trend, with MRO providers increasingly leveraging data analytics and IoT to improve operational efficiency and predictive maintenance. Indian companies are also forming partnerships with global MRO players, gaining access to advanced expertise, technology, and best practices to enhance service quality.

 

Future Prospects. Looking ahead, the future of the Indian MRO industry appears promising. The continuous rise in air traffic is expected to drive sustained demand for maintenance services, creating new opportunities for existing players and new entrants. Investment opportunities abound in MRO facilities, workforce development, and advanced technologies. As India continues to cement its position as a key player in the global aviation market, strategic initiatives from government and private sector investments will likely shape a more robust and competitive MRO industry.

 

Recommendations for Strengthening India’s MRO Sector. Key challenges must be addressed to enhance India’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) industry and make it competitive globally. The sector needs investment, regulatory support, and improved infrastructure. The following short-term and long-term measures are recommended.

 

    • Establish a Nodal Agency for MRO Regulation. A dedicated regulatory body should oversee policies, manage inter-ministerial coordination, and implement industry reforms. The agency should promote technological innovation (AI, predictive analytics, drones) and encourage R&D for indigenous technology. Offset management must ensure foreign investments contribute to capacity and technology development. Efforts should be made to expand India’s global MRO outreach and foster strategic partnerships with OEMs. Strengthen human resource development through industry-academia collaborations and international exchange programs.
    • Leverage low-IP-control areas as Entry Points. Indian MRO should focus on line maintenance, structural repair, avionics, and electrical work before progressing to high-IP areas like engine maintenance. Partnering with Tier-I global MROs can expand expertise and market reach.
    • Develop Infrastructure and Encourage OEM Collaborations. Self-sufficiency in spare parts manufacturing is crucial, as spares constitute 55% of component MRO and 80% of engine MRO costs. Government support through Production Linked Incentives (PLI) and joint ventures with FAA/EASA-certified MROs can boost domestic production.
    • Address OEM Monopoly and Strengthen Alternatives. OEMs dominate aircraft maintenance through restrictive contracts and data control. India should promote alternatives like Surplus Parts (Used Serviceable Materials), Designated Engineering Representatives (DER) Repairs, and Parts Manufacture Approval (PMA). India should seek bilateral agreements to promote global acceptance of DGCA certifications.
    • Introduce Capital Investment Incentives. The government should offer tax credits on capital expenditures, PLI incentives for components and spares, lower duties/taxes on Indian-made aviation parts, and state-level incentives for electricity and amenities to attract foreign MRO investments.
    • Adopt a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model. MRO facilities require high capital investment and long break-even periods. Government-owned, Privately Operated (GOPO) models can optimise public MRO capacities like AIESL and HAL.
    • Civil-Defence MRO Convergence. Leverage underutilised defence MRO capacity (e.g., HAL) to support civil aviation needs. Absorb skilled defence personnel into the civil MRO workforce.
    • Rationalise Customs Duty, GST, and Land Rentals. Reduce high GST and customs duty on aircraft parts to match competitors like Malaysia and Singapore. Extend duty exemptions to MRO-imported aircraft parts. Lower AAI land lease rentals to make MRO operations cost-effective.
    • Enhance Human Capital Development. Establish industry-linked aviation training programs. Government-supported scholarships and exchange programs can create a skilled workforce.
    • Recognise MRO as Infrastructure. Including MRO services in India’s Harmonized Master List of Infrastructure Sub-sectors will enable tax benefits, foreign investment, and financial incentives.

 

Conclusion

India’s aviation MRO market is poised for significant expansion, driven by rising air traffic, government initiatives, and cost advantages. However, challenges such as high taxation, regulatory complexities, and infrastructure gaps hinder its full potential. India must streamline policies, enhance local capabilities, and attract global investments to capitalise on opportunities. Strengthening the domestic supply chain and fostering skilled labour will further boost competitiveness. With strategic reforms and industry collaboration, India can emerge as a global MRO hub, reducing dependence on foreign facilities and fostering self-reliance. The sector’s growth is vital for the broader aviation ecosystem, supporting economic development and technological advancement.

 

Please Do Comment.

 

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

Pic Courtesy: Internet

References:-

  1. Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. (2023). National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP). Retrieved from https://www.civilaviation.gov.in
  1. Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). (2023). Annual Report on Indian Aviation Sector. Retrieved from https://www.dgca.gov.in
  1. Invest India. (2023). India’s MRO Industry: Growth Potential & Investment Opportunities. Retrieved from https://www.investindia.gov.in
  1. NITI Aayog. (2022). Aviation Sector Development: Roadmap for 2030. Retrieved from https://www.niti.gov.in
  1. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). (2023). Indian MRO Industry: A Gateway to Self-Reliance.
  1. CAPA India. (2023). Indian Aviation Outlook: MRO Market and Capacity Growth.
  1. Sharma, R., & Verma, A. (2022). “Economic Viability of MRO Operations in India.” Journal of Air Transport Studies, 15(3), 145-167.
  1. Patel, N., & Iyer, M. (2021). “Assessing Policy Reforms in Indian Aviation Maintenance Sector.” Aerospace Industry Review, 9(4), 223-240.
  1. Gupta, P. (2020). “Infrastructure Challenges for India’s MRO Industry.” International Journal of Aviation Management, 7(2), 78-95.
  1. The Economic Times. (2023, October 15). “India’s MRO Industry Set for $5 Billion Expansion.” Retrieved from https://economictimes.indiatimes.com
  1. Business Standard. (2023, November 10). “MRO Reforms: Will India Reduce Dependence on Foreign Maintenance Hubs?” Retrieved from https://www.business-standard.com
  1. Aviation Week. (2023, December 5). “India’s Emerging Role in Global Aircraft Maintenance.” Retrieved from https://www.aviationweek.com
  1. Live Mint. (2023, September 20). “Budget 2023: Tax Cuts & Incentives to Boost India’s MRO Sector.” Retrieved from https://www.livemint.com
  1. Interview with Amber Dubey, Former Joint Secretary, Ministry of Civil Aviation. (2023). Discussing policy reforms for India’s MRO sector. Published by FICCI Aviation Summit Proceedings.

Disclaimer:

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.

 

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547: Antariksha Abhyas 2024: A New Era for India’s Space Security

 

Pic courtesy Net

 

My Article published on the Chanakya Forum Website

on 04 Dec 24.

 

India conducted its first comprehensive space defence exercise, “Antariksha Abhyas 2024”, from November 11 to 13, 2024. It was spearheaded by the Defence Space Agency (DSA) and sought to simulate and tackle the evolving threats posed to space-based assets critical for national security.  The exercise strengthened coordination among India’s tri-services—Army, Navy, and Air Force—while integrating strategic assets within space operations. A primary objective was to assess vulnerabilities in space operations, enhance operational readiness, and develop strategies to withstand potential disruptions or denials of service. The exercise was a drill and a significant milestone in India’s defence strategy. The lessons learned from this exercise are expected to shape future military doctrines and enhance policy frameworks for space security.

 

Space Warfare. Space warfare refers to using space-based technologies and assets for military purposes, focusing on gaining strategic advantage through control of the space domain. It involves defending space infrastructure (like satellites and communication systems) and the potential to disable or destroy enemy satellites and other space-based assets during conflicts. The critical aspects of space warfare include anti-satellite weapons (ASAT), orbital warfare tactics, and strategies to control or interfere with satellite operations, such as space-based surveillance and reconnaissance and cyber-attacks. Many countries, including India, are establishing space forces and creating specialised units that handle operations in space. In recent years, nations like the U.S., China, Russia, and India have invested heavily in developing space defence capabilities, preparing for the possibility of conflict extending into space. Space warfare is seen as the next frontier in military strategy, where securing space assets will become crucial for the success of both conventional and unconventional military operations.

 

India and Space Warfare. India has made significant strides in developing its space warfare capabilities, primarily through its defence and space agencies like the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Indian Armed Forces. In recent years, India’s space capabilities have increasingly been integrated into its national defence strategy, and the country has made efforts to ensure the security of its space assets while also developing the capacity to counter space-based threats. India has recognised the importance of space security and is actively working towards setting up a specialised force to handle space-related defence operations. The Indian Air Force (IAF), currently tasked with most space defence-related activities, is being augmented with space warfare-focused units. India established the Integrated Space Cell (ISC) in 2010 to integrate space capabilities into its defence strategy. India’s Defence Space Agency (DSA) was established in 2019 under the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to enhance India’s capabilities in space for defence purposes. The agency coordinates with other agencies, including the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), which handles civilian space exploration and satellite development. In future, the Indian Space Defence Command (ISDC) is expected to be formed to provide a more cohesive and focused defence approach for space assets. India demonstrated its anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities in March 2019 when it successfully tested Mission Shakti, an ASAT weapon that destroyed one of its satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO). This test marked India as the fourth country after the United States, Russia, and China to develop and demonstrate such a capability. India has invested heavily in developing space-based surveillance and reconnaissance systems to monitor activities on Earth and space. India has been actively developing its space situational awareness (SSA) capabilities to track objects in space, detect potential threats, and predict collisions or other hazards to its satellites. This includes tracking space debris, monitoring the orbits of satellites, and identifying potential risks from enemy or hostile space activities. India is making significant advancements in its space warfare capabilities, focusing on both offensive and defensive measures to safeguard its space assets and ensure dominance in the space domain in future conflicts.

 

Exercise Antariksha Abhyas 2024

 

​The Structure and Conduct of the Exercise. Antariksha Abhyas was a highly structured event involving a mix of simulation-based war games, technical briefings, and strategic discussions. The exercise spanned three days and engaged military personnel from the Defence Space Agency and its allied units, as well as representatives from ISRO and DRDO. Each participant played a specific role, ensuring that the exercise was comprehensive and reflective of the real-world challenges India faces in space. The exercise included both tabletop simulations and live operations, with wargame scenarios designed to test the capabilities of India’s space assets in various conflict situations. These simulations included situations where space assets were compromised, such as jamming, cyber-attacks, or physical destruction through anti-satellite missiles. The exercises were not limited to offensive strategies; defensive measures such as securing satellites, countering space-based threats, and recovering lost capabilities were also explored.​

 

Aim and Objectives. Antariksha Abhyas 2024, India’s first-ever dedicated military space exercise, marks a pivotal moment in its defence strategy.  It was conceived as a ground-breaking exercise to simulate the defence of India’s space assets against emerging threats.  The exercise aimed to test and enhance the operational readiness of India’s space assets, assess vulnerabilities, and improve integration between the various branches of the armed forces and civilian space organisations like ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation). The key objectives of Antariksha Abhyas 2024 were multi-faceted, focusing on operational readiness and strategic foresight in space defence.

 

Assessing Vulnerabilities in Space Operations. One of the primary objectives was to evaluate the vulnerabilities of India’s space-based assets. Space is becoming increasingly congested, contested, and competitive, with potential adversaries looking to disrupt or deny access to space-based services. The exercise focused on identifying the weaknesses in operational capacity that might arise if these assets were targeted or disrupted, allowing for a more robust and agile defence strategy.​

 

Enhancing Inter-Agency Coordination. The exercise aimed to strengthen the integration of space capabilities with the Indian military’s overall defence strategy. This involved collaboration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force and several specialised agencies such as the Defence Cyber Agency, the Defence Intelligence Agency, and the Strategic Forces Command. These agencies and civilian bodies like ISRO and DRDO (Defence Research & Development Organisation) participated to ensure a holistic approach to space defence.​

 

Testing Operational Dependencies. Another critical aspect of the exercise was understanding how different military operations depend on space-based assets. Many military activities, from satellite communications to surveys, rely heavily on space infrastructure. The exercise sought to simulate how various military sectors could function with or without these vital services, identifying gaps in operational dependency.​

 

Fostering Innovation in Space Technologies. Given the fast-paced advancements in space technology, the exercise encouraged innovation and collaboration between the military and civilian sectors. This was particularly crucial in addressing emerging challenges such as anti-satellite warfare, space debris management, and the protection of critical satellites.​

 

Implications for India’s Space Security.

 

Antariksha Abhyas is significant not only for its technical achievements but also for its broader geopolitical implications. India has long maintained a robust space exploration program, with notable milestones such as the Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) and the Chandrayaan missions to the Moon. However, with the growing militarisation of space by other countries, such as the U.S., China, and Russia, India has recognised the need to integrate space into its national security framework.

 

The exercise reflects India’s growing ambition to become a significant space security player. While the U.S. and China have already developed sophisticated space defence capabilities, India has traditionally lagged in this domain. However, initiatives like Antariksha Abhyas indicate that India is catching up, with a clear focus on developing both offensive and defensive space operations.

 

Furthermore, the exercise highlights the critical role of civilian-military collaboration. ISRO, with its cutting-edge satellite capabilities, plays a central role in supporting India’s military operations in space. By engaging ISRO in defence exercises, India ensures its military can leverage the latest technologies and research to enhance its space capabilities. This collaboration is crucial in ensuring that India’s space assets are efficient and secure against potential threats.

 

As India expands its space capabilities, exercises like Antariksha Abhyas will be critical in shaping its future defence strategies. The exercise is a significant milestone in India’s defence and space policy. It signals India’s recognition of space as a vital component of its national security infrastructure. It reflects the growing urgency to protect space assets from conventional and non-conventional threats. The exercise has helped bolster India’s defence capabilities by providing valuable insights into space vulnerabilities, fostering inter-agency collaboration, and enhancing the nation’s readiness for potential space conflicts. Antariksha Abhyas 2024 is more than just a military exercise; it is a symbol of India’s growing space capabilities and its determination to secure its interests in space for the future.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

Link to the article:

https://chanakyaforum.com/antariksha-abhyas-2024-a-new-era-for-indias-space-security/

 

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References and credits

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References:

  1. “Antariksha Abhyas: India’s New Space Security Initiative”, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), 2024.
  1. “India’s Space Security Strategy”, Ministry of Defence, Government of India, 2024.
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  2. Pandit, R. “India’s Space Defense Strategy: Antariksha Abhyas and Beyond.” The Times of India,
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