India to launch first military satellite in 2010

India plans to launch its first dedicated military satellite, a naval communications satellite next year, according to India's defense minister A.K. Antony.

The satellite, when sent into geosynchronous orbit, will have a 600-1,000 nautical mile communication range over the Indian Ocean Region.

"The naval communication satellite's launch next year will significantly improve connectivity at sea," said Antony.

For instance, it will enable the Indian Navy to network all its warships, submarines and aircraft with onshore operational centers through high-speed data-links.

The Navy has ordered an aircraft carrier from Russia which has been delayed by several years. Different warships are under production at various shipyards at home and abroad.

The naval satellites'launch is in tune with the Space Defense Vision-2020, which identifies intelligence, reconnaissance, surveillance, communication and navigation as the thrust areas in Phase-I which will last until 2012.

After the Navy, the Indian Air Force will be next in line to have its own satellite. The Air Force is already working on setting up an aerospace command.

By People's Daily Online

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