India Launches "Bodyguard" Satellites for Space Defense

India is rapidly advancing its space defense capabilities by developing "bodyguard satellites" to protect its high-value spacecraft. Discussions between Indian security agencies and private startups are nearing completion, with the aim of launching the first test satellite in the first half of 2026. These satellites are engineered to escort, protect, and counter potential orbital threats.

The initiative is a direct response to escalating geopolitical tensions and national security concerns, particularly following border conflicts and foreign satellite support to adversaries. A near-miss incident in 2024 involving an Indian satellite underscored the urgency for such protective measures. The government is expected to acquire this technology, leading to the development of more advanced bodyguard satellites by year-end or early 2027.

These protective satellites will likely feature robotic arms for physically moving threatening spacecraft or methods to enclose and neutralize smaller attacking satellites. This effort is part of a broader Indian strategy to bolster its orbital security, which also includes the Space-Based Surveillance program aiming for over 50 spy satellites with enhanced imaging capabilities. India is also expanding its ground infrastructure for enhanced satellite monitoring and data transfer.