Exploring and Evaluating the Need of a Space Warfare Operations Readiness Division (SWORD) for an Emerging Space Superpower like India

The emergence of space as a domain for military weaponisation operations highlights the need for specialised organisations such as Space Warfare Operations Readiness Division (SWORD) to monitor and defend spacebased assets, develop and deploy space-based weapons systems and conduct retaliatory space operations, if necessary. As an emerging space superpower, India has been able to make significant strides in space technology and exploration. Also, it has recognised the importance of space for national security, economic development and scientific research. India’s Mission Shakti operation and the tri-service space agency Defence Space Agency are examples of its efforts to develop capabilities for space security and protect its space assets. The need for cybersecurity infrastructure and building resilience and redundancy in space-based infrastructure are also highlighted. The development of space capabilities must be balanced against the potential risks and limitations of weaponising space and it should be undertaken with close collaboration and adherence to international laws and norms.