Call for creation of Indian ‘Space Force’ raised in Rajya Sabha

With national security increasingly extending beyond land, sea, and air, the demand to safeguard India’s interests in space has gained momentum. On February 9, the issue of establishing an independent Indian Space Force was raised in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting growing concerns over threats to critical sectors such as the internet, GPS, communication, and surveillance systems.

Raising the matter, Odisha BJP MP Sujit Kumar strongly advocated the formation of a dedicated Space Force, stating that space can no longer be viewed merely as a domain of science and research. He emphasised that it has now become a strategic arena directly linked to national security, economic stability, and military strength.

As per reports, he said that essential services such as communication, internet connectivity, GPS navigation, satellite backups, surveillance, and military operations are entirely dependent on space-based assets. And any hostile disruption in space by an enemy nation can severely impact law, order, and security on the ground.

He warned that India faces a clear choice, either remain unprepared and risk an attack that could cripple the economy, or proactively establish a force capable of preventing such threats. “A Space Force is not about winning wars in space, but about preventing defeat on Earth,” he added.

Kumar proposed the formation of a high-level committee to examine the necessity of an independent Space Force and the establishment of a Space Warfare Academy, and to submit a comprehensive report on the matter.

Referring to India’s achievements, he noted that the creation of the Defence Space Agency, the Defence Space Research Organisation, and the successful anti-satellite test in 2019 positioned India as a significant global space power. However, he asserted that these steps are no longer sufficient given the rapidly evolving global security landscape.

Drawing comparisons, the MP pointed out that the United States established its Space Force in 2019, while China has also developed specialised military capabilities in space. “India cannot afford complacency,” he said.

He further explained that while the Defence Space Agency is a positive beginning, it currently operates under a temporary framework without its own cadre, command structure, or permanent administrative system. With several new military satellites expected to be deployed in the coming years, continuous monitoring and protection will be crucial.

“The traditional military command alone cannot meet these challenges,” Kumar concluded, urging the government to seriously consider the establishment of an independent Space Force at the earliest to secure India’s future in space.