Space defence tech is future, says Modi

Announcing India's intent to develop a range of military applications for space warfare, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a new initiative that would enable the industry to offer solutions to the armed forces for future offensive and defensive requirements.

He also laid the foundation stone for a new airbase at Deesa in Gujarat, close to the border from Pakistan and said the country is ready to respond to any misadventure on the Western border.

Speaking at the flagship military exhibition DefExpo here, he hinted that defence applications in space will not only help the Indian armed forces but can also be extended to friendly foreign nations.


"Space technology is an example of what security will mean for any strong nation in future. Various challenges in this area have been reviewed and identified by the three services. We have to work fast to solve them," the PM said.

As part of the initiative, 75 challenges for space technologies will shortly be declared by the defence ministry. Startups, innovators and the private sector will be invited to find solutions for the problems that will include both offensive and defensive capabilities. Developmental work is likely to be partially funded by the government.

While details of the challenges are yet to be shared, the presentation at DefExpo showcased bringing down of satellites by ground based lasers.

Modi also released a list of 101 items that would no longer be imported by India.