In a groundbreaking move to bolster India’s defence capabilities in space, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan launched "Antariksha Abhyas," India's inaugural tri-services defence space exercise. The three-day event, which began on November 11, is organized by the Defence Space Agency (DSA) under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS).

According to an official release, this exercise is aimed at preparing the Indian Armed Forces to safeguard crucial space assets and incorporate advanced technology to secure India's future in space. Speaking at the inauguration, CDS Gen Chauhan emphasised the strategic importance of space, stating, “Space, once considered the final frontier, is now the critical enabler of India’s defence and security apparatus. With its rich legacy of space exploration and growing military capabilities, India is well-positioned to navigate the challenges posed to space-based capabilities."

Gen Chauhan underscored the growing challenges in the space domain, which he described as increasingly "congested, contested, competitive, and commercial." He urged the military leadership to safeguard India's national interests in space, stressing the need for innovation and collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and academic institutions to advance cutting-edge space technologies.

Reaffirming India’s commitment to strengthening its space warfare abilities, Gen Chauhan noted, "Control over space assets results directly in a national security advantage.” He further highlighted the necessity of developing protocols and strategies to protect against vulnerabilities and secure India’s interests in space.

According to government sources, 'Antariksha Abhyas 2024' is designed to simulate and address threats to space-based assets and services. The exercise seeks to help the Indian military align its space capabilities with national defence objectives, as well as deepen its understanding of space-based systems and their operational dependencies.

Personnel from the Defence Space Agency, as well as branches of the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force, are participating in the exercise. Specialist units under HQ IDS, including the Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Strategic Forces Command, are also actively involved. Representatives from ISRO and DRDO are contributing their expertise to enhance India's readiness in the space domain.

The exercise is expected to identify vulnerabilities in space operations and assess potential impacts in the event of disruptions to space-based services. By fostering interagency cooperation and technical understanding, Antariksha Abhyas aims to secure India’s strategic objectives in space and position the nation as a formidable player in space defence.