NEW DELHI: As tensions simmer between India and Pakistan, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman V. Narayanan announced that 10 satellites are operating round-the-clock to support national security efforts and safeguard Indian citizens.
Speaking at the 5th convocation of Central Agricultural University (CAU) in Agartala on Sunday, Narayanan emphasized the strategic importance of space technology in national defence. “To ensure the safety of our country, we must serve through our satellites,” he said. “We have to monitor our 7,000 km-long coastline, and without satellite and drone technologies, many things would remain unachievable.”
ISRO has so far launched 127 Indian satellites, including those developed by private firms and academic institutions. Of these, 22 are in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and 29 in geosynchronous orbit, all operated by the central government. India’s surveillance fleet includes a dozen reconnaissance satellites from the Cartosat, RISAT, EMISAT, and MicroSat series, each serving specialized monitoring roles.
The remarks come ahead of ISRO’s planned May 18 launch of the EOS-09 (RISAT-1B), a radar imaging satellite designed to enhance surveillance along India’s sensitive borders.
Days earlier, Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) Chairman Pawan Kumar Goenka revealed plans to deploy a constellation of 52 satellites over the next five years to bolster India’s space-based surveillance capabilities. “We already have strong capabilities. But these need continuous enhancement,” Goenka said during the Global Space Exploration Conference 2025. He also highlighted efforts to involve the private sector more actively in future defence-oriented space missions.
The new satellite constellation is expected to significantly improve real-time intelligence for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, aiding border monitoring and operational coordination during military engagements.
Narayanan also underlined ISRO’s broader developmental mission, particularly in India’s northeastern region, where satellites support multiple infrastructure and governance projects. Looking ahead, he expressed optimism about India’s space ambitions: “Before we celebrate 100 years of independence, India will be a master in every field and a major contributor to global progress.”
Urging graduating students to give back to society, he concluded, “With your degrees comes responsibility—to serve the nation and support its growth.”
