India's military to get a boost: Two new satellites to enhance surveillance

NEW DELHI: India is preparing to launch two new satellites with the help of advanced technology to strengthen national security. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch two major military observation satellites by the end of this year- the Technology Demonstration Satellite (TDS) and GSAT-7R.

The GSAT-7R will replace the currently used GSAT-7 (Rukmini) for military communication. It will be a big boost for the Navy. The satellite is expected to cost Rs 1,589 crore (about $225.5 million) and will be launched using ISRO’s GSLV Mark-2 launch vehicle.

The earlier GSAT-7 (Rukmini) was launched in 2013 for naval operations. It provided essential multi-band communication for warships, submarines, aircraft, and coastal systems, enabling secure real-time communication across the Indian Ocean region. The GSAT-7R will offer the Navy more advanced communication capabilities. The satellite will be placed in geostationary orbit at 35,786 km above the equator and will weigh about 2,650 kg.

Along with GSAT-7R, ISRO will also launch the Technology Demonstration Satellite. This mission aims to develop India’s technological expertise and improve local capabilities in satellite technology. However, details of the specific features of this satellite have not yet been revealed.

In addition to these satellites, ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan announced that India will build a giant rocket as tall as a 40-story building, capable of carrying satellites weighing up to 75,000 kg into orbit. This would mark a major leap in India’s space journey. During the time of former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, India could only place 35 kg into space with a 17-ton rocket. In just a few decades, India has made remarkable progress from there.