Mission Shakti

2022-03-22T17:58:27Z

141.70.6.91: robot: import pages using Special:Import

{{Short description|First Indian anti-satellite weapon test}}
{{Use British English|date=November 2021}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2019}}
{{Operational plan
| name = Mission Shakti
| partof =
| image = Launch of DRDO's Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor missile for an ASAT test on 27 March 2019.jpg
| caption = The [[anti-satellite missile]] lifting off on 27 March 2019 from [[Abdul Kalam Island]] as part of Mission Shakti.
| scope =
| type =
| location =
| coordinates =
| map_type =
| latitude =
| longitude =
| map_size =
| map_caption =
| map_label =
| planned =
| planned_by = [[India]]
| objective = Destruction of target live satellite (suspected [[Microsat-R]])
| target =
| date = 27 March 2019
| time =
| time-begin = 11:10
| time-end = 11:13
| timezone = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]]
| executed_by = [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defense Programme#Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark 2|PDV Mk-II]] [[anti-ballistic missile]]
| outcome = Satellite destroyed successfully
}}

On 27 March 2019, [[India]] tested an [[anti-satellite weapon]] (ASAT) during an operation code named '''Mission Shakti''' ([[IAST]]: [[Shakti|Śakti]]; lit. ''"Power"'').<ref>{{cite news |url=https://m.economictimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/pm-modis-big-announcement-india-successfully-tests-anti-satellite-weapon/articleshow/68592702.cms|title=India tests first anti-satellite missile system, codenamed Mission Shakti|last=Pubby|first=Manu|date=2019-03-28|newspaper=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-12-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327114545/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/pm-modis-big-announcement-india-successfully-tests-anti-satellite-weapon/articleshow/68592702.cms|archive-date=27 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":7"/> The target of the test was a satellite present in a [[low Earth orbit]], which was hit with a [[kinetic kill vehicle]].

The ASAT test utilized a modified [[anti-ballistic missile]] interceptor code-named [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme#Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark 2|Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark-II]] which was developed under Project XSV-1. The test made India the fourth country after the [[United States]], [[Russia]] and [[China]] to have tested an ASAT weapon.

The test sparked concerns regarding the creation of [[space debris]]. The Indian government tried to address these concerns by saying that the debris generated from the test would not last for a long duration.

India's successful demonstration of the ASAT capability is said to signify its ability to intercept an [[intercontinental ballistic missile]] (ICBM). The ASAT weapon is meant to act as a deterrent.

== Background ==
The Indian anti-satellite (ASAT) program utilized ''spin off technologies'' from Indian [[Anti-ballistic missile|ABM]] systems. India is developing a multi-layered and multi-phased missile defence system to defend against hostile [[Ballistic missile|ballistic]] and [[cruise missile]]s. The exo-atmospheric interceptors meant to be used against ICBMs, which have lofted trajectories and fly at high altitudes, can also be used to intercept satellites.<ref name="DailyO.in">{{cite news|title=Mission Shakti: Technology demonstrator or new weapon in the arsenal?|url=https://www.dailyo.in/politics/project-shakti-lok-sabha-elections-2019-narendra-modi-asat-programme-mission-shakti-india-s-nuclear-tests-ins-arihant-china-pakistan-usa-pentagon/story/1/30109.html|date=29 March 2019|access-date=27 April 2019|newspaper=DailyO|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190427060220/https://www.dailyo.in/politics/project-shakti-lok-sabha-elections-2019-narendra-modi-asat-programme-mission-shakti-india-s-nuclear-tests-ins-arihant-china-pakistan-usa-pentagon/story/1/30109.html|archive-date=27 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

In response to threats posed by missile systems from China and Pakistan, India began to work on its [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme|BMD program]] in 1999.<ref name=vk>[http://www.defensenews.com/aero/story.php?id=2524130 Interview: Vijay Kumar Saraswat]{{dead link|date=August 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> In 2006 and 2007, India tested its first exo atmospheric interceptor Prithvi Air Defence (PAD) and endo atmospheric interceptor Ashwin/Advanced Air Defence respectively.<ref>{{cite web|last=Ratliff|first=Ben |url=http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/03/06/asia/AS-India-Missile-Defense.php|title=India successfully tests missile interceptor|newspaper=International Herald Tribune|access-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090310002406/http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2009/03/06/asia/AS-India-Missile-Defense.php|archive-date=10 March 2009|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2009, India began to work a new exo atmospheric interceptor called ''Prithvi Defense Vehicle'' (PDV) similar to [[Terminal High Altitude Area Defense]] (THAAD).<ref>{{cite web |url=http://indiatoday.intoday.in/site/Story/31874/LATEST%20HEADLINES/DRDO+readies+shield+against+Chinese+ICBMs.html|title=DRDO readies shield against Chinese ICBMs|newspaper=India Today|date=9 March 2009 |access-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110316075551/http://indiatoday.intoday.in/site/Story/31874/LATEST%20HEADLINES/DRDO+readies+shield+against+Chinese+ICBMs.html|archive-date=16 March 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>

India had begun work on an ASAT soon after the [[2007 Chinese anti-satellite missile test]].<ref name=":6">{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/india-successfully-tests-asat-missile-joins-space-superpower-club-119032800048_1.html|title=India successfully tests ASAT missile, joins space superpower club|last=Shukla|first=Ajai|date=2019-03-28|publisher=Business Standard India |access-date=2019-10-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190814090312/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/india-successfully-tests-asat-missile-joins-space-superpower-club-119032800048_1.html|archive-date=14 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> In a televised press briefing during the 97th Indian Science Congress in Thiruvananthapuram, the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] Director General Rupesh announced that India was developing the necessary technology that could be combined to produce a weapon to destroy enemy satellites in orbit. On 18 March 2008, DRDO Director-General and Scientific Advisor to the Defence Minister [[V. K. Saraswat]] hinted that India possessed technology required for an ASAT missile.<ref name=":6"/> On 10 February 2010, [[V. K. Saraswat |Saraswat]] stated that India had "all the building blocks necessary" to integrate an anti-satellite weapon to neutralize hostile satellites in [[low Earth orbit]] and [[polar orbit]]s. India is known to have been developing an [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme|exo-atmospheric kill vehicle]] that can be integrated with the missile to engage satellites.<ref name="auto">{{cite web |url=https://www.strategicfront.org/india-needs-demonstrate-asat-capability-publicly/|title=Archived copy|access-date=2015-06-11|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171222051723/https://www.strategicfront.org/india-needs-demonstrate-asat-capability-publicly/|archive-date=2017-12-22|date=12 February 2015}}</ref> In April 2012, DRDO's chairman V. K. Saraswat said that India possessed the critical technologies for an ASAT weapon from radars and interceptors developed for [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme]].<ref>{{cite news |last=Unnithan|first=Sandeep|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/agni-v-drdo-chief-dr-vijay-kumar-saraswat-interview-100405-2012-04-27|title=India has all the building blocks for an anti-satellite capability|newspaper=India Today|date=27 April 2012|access-date=27 March 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327081410/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/agni-v-drdo-chief-dr-vijay-kumar-saraswat-interview-100405-2012-04-27|archive-date=27 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> In July 2012, Ajay Lele, an [[Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses]] fellow, wrote that an ASAT test would bolster India's position if an international regime to control the proliferation of ASATs similar to [[Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons|NPT]] were to be established. He suggested that a low-orbit test against a purpose-launched satellite would not be seen as irresponsible.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Lele|first1=Ajay|title=Should India Conduct an ASAT Test Now? |url=https://idsa.in/idsacomments/ShouldIndiaConductanASATTestNow_alele_110712|website=idsa.in|publisher=Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses|date=11 July 2012|access-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327211602/https://idsa.in/idsacomments/ShouldIndiaConductanASATTestNow_alele_110712|archive-date=27 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

In 2014, India carried out the maiden test of PDV.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=838755|title=India Successfully Test-Fires New Interceptor Missile |website=news.outlookindia.com|access-date=2014-04-30|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140428163936/http://news.outlookindia.com/items.aspx?artid=838755|archive-date=28 April 2014}}</ref> First real time interception test was carried out against a maneuvering target in 2017, followed by another test in 2019.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-successfully-test-fires-interceptor-missile/articleshow/57093816.cms|title=India successfully test-fires interceptor missile|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502202042/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-successfully-test-fires-interceptor-missile/articleshow/57093816.cms|archive-date=2 May 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://odishasuntimes.com/india-test-fires-high-speed-interceptor-missile-off-odisha-coast/|title=India test fires high speed interceptor missile off Odisha coast|access-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190212190430/https://odishasuntimes.com/india-test-fires-high-speed-interceptor-missile-off-odisha-coast/|archive-date=12 February 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> In 2017, India had lost contact to one of its key imaging satellites, [[RISAT-1]].

In 2016, the Indian Government approved a program codenamed '''Project XSV-1''' for an ASAT test.<ref name="OnManorama">{{cite news|title=DRDO's top secret A-SAT mission codenamed 'Project XSV-1' |url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2019/03/28/drdo-top-secret-asat-mission-project-xsv1-onmanorama-exclusive.html|date=29 March 2019|access-date=27 April 2019|newspaper=OnManorama|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328153325/https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2019/03/28/drdo-top-secret-asat-mission-project-xsv1-onmanorama-exclusive.html|archive-date=28 March 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> A modified version of the [[Indian_Ballistic_Missile_Defence_Programme#Prithvi_Defence_Vehicle_(PDV)|PDV]] similar to the midcourse ground-based interceptor, officially named ''PDV MkII'' was tested against a satellite on 27 March 2019.

DRDO has also been working on [[Directed-energy weapon|directed energy weapons]], [[electromagnetic pulse]] and co-orbital weapons for ASAT roles.<ref>{{cite news|title=Satellite-killer not a one-off, India working on star wars armoury
|url=https://m.timesofindia.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms|date=7 April 2019|access-date=27 April 2019|newspaper=The Times of India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190407042144/https://m.timesofindia.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms|archive-date=7 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Specifications ==
[[File:DRDO's Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor being launched for an ASAT test on 27 March 2019.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|The ASAT missile, designated Prithvi Defence Vehicle Mark-II, lifting off to intercept the satellite. It is a part of the [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme]].]]

The interceptor struck a test satellite at a {{cvt|283|km}} altitude in [[low Earth orbit]] (LEO), thus making Mission Shakti a successful [[Anti-satellite weapon|ASAT]] missile test. The interceptor was launched at around 05:40 [[Coordinated Universal Time|UTC]] at the [[Integrated Test Range]] (ITR) in [[Abdul Kalam Island]] and hit its target after 168 seconds. [[Microsat-R]] was the suspected target of the test.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-idUSKCN1R91DM|title=India says space debris from anti-satellite test to 'vanish' in 45...|date=2019-03-28|agency=Reuters|access-date=2019-03-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328164635/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-idUSKCN1R91DM|archive-date=28 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2019/03/27/mission-shakti-drdo-asat-missile-hit-microsat-r-isro.html|title=Explained Mission Shakti {{!}} What is A-SAT and how it hit Microsat-R in 168 secs |website=OnManorama|access-date=2019-03-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328114655/https://english.manoramaonline.com/news/nation/2019/03/27/mission-shakti-drdo-asat-missile-hit-microsat-r-isro.html|archive-date=28 March 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-shows-off-tech-to-kill-satellites-will-also-help-tackle-high-altitude-missiles/articleshow/68602482.cms|title=India shows off tech to "kill" satellites, will also help tackle high-altitude missiles|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2019-03-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327160521/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-shows-off-tech-to-kill-satellites-will-also-help-tackle-high-altitude-missiles/articleshow/68602482.cms|archive-date=27 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> The missile system was developed by the [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]] (DRDO) — a research wing of the Indian defence services.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1569563|title=Press Information Bureau|website=pib.nic.in|access-date=2019-03-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327231500/http://pib.nic.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=1569563|archive-date=27 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Prime Minister of India|Prime Minister]] [[Narendra Modi]] addressed the nation on television, announcing the test.<ref name=":5">{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/27/world/asia/india-weather-satellite-missle.html|title=India Shot Down a Satellite, Modi Says, Shifting Balance of Power in Asia|last=Gettleman|first=Jeffrey|date=2019-03-27|newspaper=The New York Times|access-date=2019-08-03|last2=Kumar|first2=Hari|issn=0362-4331|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190727212854/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/27/world/asia/india-weather-satellite-missle.html|archive-date=27 July 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":7">{{cite news |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/narendra-modi-announces-success-of-mission-shakti-indias-anti-satellite-missile-capability/article26651731.ece|title=Narendra Modi announces success of Mission Shakti, India's anti-satellite missile capability|date=2019-03-27|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2019-09-16|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190916131126/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/narendra-modi-announces-success-of-mission-shakti-indias-anti-satellite-missile-capability/article26651731.ece|archive-date=16 September 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> With this test, India became the fourth nation after [[United States]], [[Russia]] and [[China]] with proven anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/successful-anti-satellite-missile-test-puts-india-in-elite-club/article26657024.ece|title=Successful anti-satellite missile test puts India in elite club |last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2019-03-27|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2019-08-11|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

=== Interceptor ===
India officially confirmed that the ASAT missile used in the test is a [[Anti-ballistic missile|Ballistic Missile Defence]] interceptor and is part of the [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme]].<ref name=":2"/> The interceptor has the designation of '''Prithvi Defence Vehicle (PDV) Mark-II'''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thediplomat.com/2019/05/why-indias-asat-test-was-reckless/|title=Why India's ASAT Test Was Reckless|last=Langbroek|first=Marco|magazine=The Diplomat|access-date=2019-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506215045/https://thediplomat.com/2019/05/why-indias-asat-test-was-reckless/ |archive-date=6 May 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":3"/>

The interceptor missile involved in the test had a hit-to-kill capable [[Kinetic kill vehicle]]. Thus the missile, by nature, was a direct-ascent anti-satellite weapon.<ref name=":0">{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-shoots-into-star-wars-club/articleshow/68605713.cms|title=ASAT satellite: India shoots into star wars club|date=28 March 2019|newspaper=The Times of India |access-date=2019-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190409225922/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/india-shoots-into-star-wars-club/articleshow/68605713.cms|archive-date=9 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> It had a length of {{cvt|13|m}} and a diameter of {{cvt|1.4|m}}. Being a three-stage missile, it was fitted with two solid-propellant rocket motor stages and the Kill vehicle. The combined weight of the first and the second stages is 17.2 tons, with the third stage weighing 1.8 tons. The first two stages can carry 16.7 tons of fuel.<ref>{{citation|title=Analysis of Indian ASAT Test on 27 March 2019|authors=Valadimir Akhmetov, Vadym Savanevych, Evgen Dikov|year=2019|arxiv=1905.09659|bibcode=2019arXiv190509659A}}</ref><ref name="DRDO India"/><ref name=":1"/> [[DRDO]] Chief [[G. Satheesh Reddy]] said that although some previously developed sub-technologies were used as a basis, the interceptor was a completely new missile.<ref name=":0"/>[[File:26 01 2020 Cerimônia do Dia da República da Índia (49443129557).jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|ASAT being displayed during the Republic Day Parade, 2020.]]

As per DRDO, the missile was capable of shooting down targets moving at a speed of {{cvt|10|km/s}} at an altitude as high as {{cvt|1200|km}}. However, in order to minimize the threat of [[Space debris|debris]], the interception was performed against an object moving at {{cvt|7.4|km/s}} at an altitude below {{cvt|300|km}}.<ref name="DRDO India">{{cite web|url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/April/din-10april2019.pdf|title=DRDO in news|date=10 April 2019|publisher=Defence Research and Development Organisation|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190424072021/https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/April/din-10april2019.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2019|access-date=24 April 2019}}</ref> DRDO Chief [[G. Satheesh Reddy]] said that the propulsive power of the interceptor missile can be increased to make it capable of targeting satellites at medium altitudes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://forceindia.net/interview/secretary-department-defence-rd-chairman-defence-research-development-organisation-dr-g-satheesh-reddy/|title=Interview {{!}} Chairman, DRDO, Dr G. Satheesh Reddy|publisher=Force India|access-date=2019-08-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190812065930/http://forceindia.net/interview/secretary-department-defence-rd-chairman-defence-research-development-organisation-dr-g-satheesh-reddy/|archive-date=12 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

The missile reportedly hit the satellite with an accuracy of less than {{cvt|10|cm}}, which is comparable with the best reported performance of ASAT missiles.<ref name="DRDO India" /> Some reports stated that the achieved accuracy was of a few centimetres.<ref name=":0" />

According to [[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]] Chief [[G. Satheesh Reddy]], the interceptor missile is capable of shooting down all the satellites present in [[low Earth orbit]].<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/all-low-earth-satellites-in-reach-of-asat-missile-drdo-chief/article26756012.ece|title=All low Earth satellites in reach of ASAT missile: DRDO chief|last=Peri |first=Dinakar|date=2019-04-06|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2019-08-13|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

==== Kill vehicle ====
The [[kill vehicle]] constituted the third stage of the interceptor missile. It had an advanced terminal guidance system on board, including a non-gimballed strap down [[Thermography|imaging infrared]] [[Missile guidance|seeker]] and an [[inertial navigation system]] that used [[Ring laser gyroscope|ring-laser gyroscopes]], which detected and tracked the [[Microsat-R]] satellite in [[low Earth orbit]].<ref name=":1">{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/article/87788/india-s-drdo-reveals-additional-details-of-recent-asat-missile-test|title=India's DRDO reveals additional details of recent ASAT missile test {{!}} Jane's 360|publisher=Jane's 360|access-date=2019-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807054435/https://www.janes.com/article/87788/india-s-drdo-reveals-additional-details-of-recent-asat-missile-test|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="DRDO India" />

Course corrections to the Kill Vehicle's trajectory were made using a [[Thrust vectoring|thrust-vector]] system. Large thrusters present at the top of the Kill Vehicle's rear cylindrical body at approximately its centre of gravity and smaller thrusters present near the back of the Kill Vehicle were used.<ref name=":1" /><ref name="DRDO India" /> The Kill Vehicle has the capability to destroy targets in the entire low Earth orbit region.<ref>{{cite news|last=Peri|first=Dinakar|date=2021-03-26|title=Two years since ASAT test, DRDO working on several key space technologies|newspaper=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/two-years-since-asat-test-drdo-working-on-several-key-space-technologies/article34171447.ece|access-date=2021-03-28|issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

==== Solid rocket motor ====
[[Solid-propellant rocket]] motors formed the first two stages of the interceptor missile. These rocket motor stages took the ASAT missile to the required height and velocity. After that, the nose tip heat shield was ejected and the IIR seeker of the Kill Vehicle locked onto the satellite.<ref name=":1" /><ref name="DRDO India" /> The [[solid rocket booster]] used is a derivative of the technology first developed for [[Sagarika (missile)|Sagarika missile]].<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|last=Unnithan|first=Sandeep|date=31 December 2021|title=The ‘K’ factor in the recent missile tests|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india-today-insight/story/the-k-factor-in-the-recent-missile-tests-1894315-2021-12-30|url-status=live|access-date=2022-01-01|website=India Today|language=en}}</ref>

===== Composite propellant =====
{{Main|Composite propellant}}
PDV MkII uses a new generation of [[composite propellant]] that [[High Energy Materials Research Laboratory]] (HEMRL) started working on during the development phase of [[K Missile family]]. The solid fuel is highly efficient and can provide more energy compare to the fuel used in [[Agni (missile)|Agni missile]] series.<ref name=":8" />

=== Target satellite ===
[[File:Indian ASAT target Microsat-R in satellite preparation facility.png|thumb|Microsat-R in satellite preparation facility.]]
The target of the test was widely reported to have been [[Microsat-R]], a satellite which was launched by [[Indian Space Research Organisation|ISRO]] on 24 January 2019. This satellite was reportedly built to serve the purpose of the test.<ref name=":0"/><ref name="DRDO India"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://thewire.in/space/mission-shakti-india-likely-destroyed-microsat-r-satellite-in-first-asat-test|title=Mission Shakti: India Likely Destroyed Microsat R Satellite in First ASAT Test|publisher=The Wire|access-date=2019-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807055735/https://thewire.in/space/mission-shakti-india-likely-destroyed-microsat-r-satellite-in-first-asat-test|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":4">{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/indian-asat-a-responsible-deterrent-say-experts/article26656234.ece|title=Indian ASAT a responsible deterrent, say experts|last=D. S.|first=Madhumathi|date=2019-03-27|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2019-08-07|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> However, India maintains that it shot down a "live" Indian satellite; India has not specified the satellite.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/mission-shakti-narendra-modi-full-speech-1487838-2019-03-27|title=Mission Shakti: Read PM Narendra Modi's full speech announcing how India took down satellite|date=27 March 2019|newspaper=India Today|access-date=2019-08-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190814155552/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/mission-shakti-narendra-modi-full-speech-1487838-2019-03-27|archive-date=14 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":2"/> The relative velocity between the missile and Microsat-R was around {{cvt|10|km/s}}.<ref name=":0"/>

Shooting down a satellite approximately present in a {{cvt|300|km}} [[low Earth orbit]] is more challenging than shooting down a satellite present in a higher orbit.<ref name=":4"/> The transverse [[orbital speed]] of a satellite is inversely proportional to its distance from the centre of Earth, which is a direct consequence of the law of conservation of [[angular momentum]], or equivalently, [[Johannes Kepler |Kepler]]'s [[Kepler's laws of planetary motion|second law]].<ref>{{cite book|author-link=George Gamow|title=Gravity|publisher=Anchor Books, Doubleday & Co.|date=1962|location=New York|page=66|isbn=0-486-42563-0|quote="...the motion of planets along their elliptical orbits proceeds in such a way that an imaginary line connecting the Sun with the planet sweeps over equal areas of the planetary orbit in equal intervals of time".}}</ref>

== Aftermath ==
=== Space debris ===
In a statement released after the test, [[Ministry of External Affairs (India)|Indian Ministry of External Affairs]] said that the test was conducted at low altitude to ensure that the resulting [[Space debris|debris]] would "decay and fall back onto the Earth within weeks".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-usa-idUSKCN1R825Z|title=U.S. says studying India anti-satellite weapons test, warns on debris|date=2019-03-27|agency=Reuters|access-date=2019-04-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190327210218/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-usa-idUSKCN1R825Z |archive-date=27 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{cite web|url=https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/31179/Frequently_Asked_Questions_on_Mission_Shakti_Indias_AntiSatellite_Missile_test_conducted_on_27_March_2019|title=Frequently Asked Questions on Mission Shakti, India's Anti-Satellite Missile test conducted on 27 March 2019|publisher=Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India|access-date=2019-04-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190410104320/https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl%2F31179%2FFrequently_Asked_Questions_on_Mission_Shakti_Indias_AntiSatellite_Missile_test_conducted_on_27_March_2019|archive-date=10 April 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref>

According to [[Jonathan McDowell]], an astrophysicist at [[Harvard–Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics]], some debris might persist for a year, but most should burn up in the atmosphere within several weeks.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Salazar|first1=Doris Elin|title=India Says Its Anti-Satellite Weapon Test Created Minimal Space Debris. Is That True?|url=https://www.space.com/india-anti-satellite-weapon-test-debris.html|publisher=Space.com|date=28 March 2019|access-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190410082200/https://www.space.com/india-anti-satellite-weapon-test-debris.html|archive-date=10 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> Brian Weeden of Secure World Foundation agreed, but warned about the possibility of some fragments getting boosted to higher orbits. U.S. [[Air Force Space Command]] said that it was tracking 270 pieces of debris from the test,<ref>{{cite news|last1=Clark|first1=Stephen|title=U.S. military sensors track debris from Indian anti-satellite test |url=https://spaceflightnow.com/2019/03/27/u-s-military-sensors-track-debris-from-indian-anti-satellite-test/|publisher=Spaceflight Now|date=27 March 2019|access-date=27 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328230125/https://spaceflightnow.com/2019/03/27/u-s-military-sensors-track-debris-from-indian-anti-satellite-test/|archive-date=28 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> although as of 26 September 2019 only 125 objects have been [[Satellite Catalog Number|catalogued]].<ref name=20190926-status>{{cite tweet|user=TSKelso|author=T.S.Kelso|number=1177770888978206720|date=27 September 2019|title=Six months after the Indian ASAT test, 125 pieces have been cataloged and 50 are still shown as on orbit. Nine are lost (TLEs over 30 days old) and more could be joining them soon}}</ref> A Dutch [[Space Situational Awareness Programme|Space Situational Awareness]] consultant Marco Langbroek disputed DRDO's claim that the test was responsible. He said that the intercept was not "head on", which would have minimized debris ejection to higher altitudes, but was instead conducted at an upwards angle.<ref name="The Diplomat">{{cite news|last1=Langbroek|first1=Marco|title=Why India's ASAT Test Was Reckless. Publicly available data contradicts official Indian assertions about its first anti-satellite test|url=https://thediplomat.com/2019/05/why-indias-asat-test-was-reckless/|publisher=The Diplomat|date=30 April 2019|access-date=15 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506215045/https://thediplomat.com/2019/05/why-indias-asat-test-was-reckless/|archive-date=6 May 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> He added that most of the debris would be cleared within days, but some might last a year or two.<ref name="The Diplomat"/>

According to [[NASA]], 49 tracked pieces of debris remained in orbit as of 15 July 2019. Indian missile experts criticised this claim by mentioning that debris was generated in similar tests by the U.S., adding that the debris doesn't pose a threat to any spacecraft because it is in a very low orbit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nasa-says-49-debris-from-a-sat-test-still-in-space-indian-expert-slams-us-report/articleshow/70834149.cms|title=Nasa says 49 debris from A-Sat test still in space, Indian missile expert slams report|date=26 August 2019|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2019-08-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190826000023/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/nasa-says-49-debris-from-a-sat-test-still-in-space-indian-expert-slams-us-report/articleshow/70834149.cms |archive-date=26 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

As of 26 September 2019, there were 50 tracked pieces of debris in orbit but 9 of them were lost (no updates for more than 30 days) according to astrodynamicist T. S. Kelso.<ref name=20190926-status/>

As of March 2022, only one catalogued piece of debris from Microsat-R remains in orbit: COSPAR 2019-006DE, SATCAT 44383.

=== Defence Space Agency ===
{{main|Defence Space Agency}}

India has created the [[Defence Space Agency]] to develop capabilities required to protect its interests in outer space and to deal with the threat of space wars.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/government-finalises-broad-contours-of-defence-space-agency/articleshow/69745921.cms?from=mdr|title=Government finalises broad contours of defence space agency|date=2019-06-11|publisher=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref> India conducted its first simulated space warfare exercise on 25th and 26 July 2019, called ''IndSpaceEx''. The exercise was conducted by the [[Integrated Defence Staff]]. The exercise is expected to lead to an assessment of threats and the creation of a joint space warfare doctrine.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/eye-on-china-india-set-to-kickstart-1st-space-war-drill/articleshow/70354760.cms|title=Eye on China, India set to kickstart 1st space war drill|date=24 July 2019 |newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2019-08-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190825223037/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/eye-on-china-india-set-to-kickstart-1st-space-war-drill/articleshow/70354760.cms|archive-date=25 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/space-defence-is-india-prepared-to-fight-and-win-tomorrows-wars-4314861.html|title=Space Defence {{!}} Is India prepared to fight, and win tomorrow's wars?|website=moneycontrol.com|access-date=2019-08-10|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190810114247/https://www.moneycontrol.com/news/india/space-defence-is-india-prepared-to-fight-and-win-tomorrows-wars-4314861.html|archive-date=10 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Further ASAT development ===
[[File:ASAT_test_2020_stamp_of_India_2.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|Indian Stamp in 2020]]

India is reportedly working on directed energy ASAT weapons, co-orbital ASAT weapons, lasers and electromagnetic pulse (EMP) based ASAT weapons. The ability to protect space assets from hostile electronic and physical attacks is also being developed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms|title=ASAT missile: Satellite-killer not a one-off, India working on star wars armoury|date=7 April 2019|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2019-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190602123612/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/satellite-killer-not-a-one-off-india-working-on-star-wars-armoury/articleshow/68758674.cms|archive-date=2 June 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Spying incident ===
[https://mobile.twitter.com/aircraftspots?lang=en Aircraft Spots], which monitors military-related aircraft movements, said that a [[United States Air Force]] reconnaissance aircraft from the [[Naval Support Facility Diego Garcia]] flew on "a mission in the Bay of Bengal to monitor India's anti-satellite missile test".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-didnt-spy-on-indias-asat-test-pentagon/article26684810.ece|title=U.S. didn't spy on India's ASAT test: Pentagon|date=2019-03-30|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=2019-08-13|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190608175138/https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/us-didnt-spy-on-indias-asat-test-pentagon/article26684810.ece|archive-date=8 June 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> This was denied by the [[United States Department of Defense]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thestatesman.com/world/us-strongly-denies-spying-india-asat-missile-test-1502741826.html|title=U.S. "strongly denies" spying India's ASAT missile test, but says was aware of operation|date=2019-03-30|newspaper=The Statesman|access-date=2019-08-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330215848/https://www.thestatesman.com/world/us-strongly-denies-spying-india-asat-missile-test-1502741826.html|archive-date=30 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Reactions ==
=== Neighbourhood of India ===
==== People's Republic of China ====
[[China]] reacted cautiously to the test. The [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China|Chinese Foreign Ministry]] said that it has noticed reports about the test and was hopeful that all countries will uphold peace and tranquility in outer space.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/china-reacts-guardedly-to-indias-asat-missile-test-hopes-nations-will-uphold-peace-in-space/articleshow/68598470.cms?from=mdr|title=China reacts guardedly to India's ASAT missile test; hopes nations will uphold peace in space|date=2019-03-27|newspaper=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref>

However, [[State media|state-run media]] of China highlighted the 'double standards' of the [[Western world]]. It said that the West did not criticize India as much as it criticized China for its ASAT [[2007 Chinese anti-satellite missile test|2007 test]] because it viewed the test from a "China-India competition perspective".<ref>{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/state-run-chinese-media-decries-west-double-standards-on-anti-satellite-missile-test/articleshow/68640144.cms?from=mdr|title=State-run Chinese media decries West double standards on Anti-Satellite Missile Test|last=Chaudhury |first=Dipanjan Roy|date=2019-03-30|newspaper=The Economic Times|access-date=2019-08-03}}</ref>

==== Pakistan ====
[[Pakistan]] asserted that space is a common heritage of mankind, saying that every nation has the duty to refrain from actions that lead to the militarization of space. [[Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Pakistan) |Pakistan Foreign Ministry]] spokesperson said that boasting of such capabilities is useless, invoking the English idiom [[Tilting at Windmills]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/pakistan/pakistan-urges-no-militarization-of-space-after-india-downs-satellite/articleshow/68598453.cms|title=Mission Shakti: How China and Pakistan reacted|date=27 March 2019|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2019-08-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190822160803/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/pakistan/pakistan-urges-no-militarization-of-space-after-india-downs-satellite/articleshow/68598453.cms|archive-date=22 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> Pakistan also hoped that countries which have condemned such tests by other countries before "will be prepared to work towards developing international instruments to prevent military threats relating to outer space".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dawn.com/news/1472198|title=India claims to shoot down satellite, join "space superpowers"|date=2019-03-27|publisher=Dawn|access-date=2019-08-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807200127/https://www.dawn.com/news/1472198|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Other countries ===
==== Russia ====
[[Russia]] acknowledged India's statement on the test not being targeted against any nation and invited India to join the Russian–Chinese proposal for a [[Militarisation of space#Space Preservation Treaty |treaty against weaponisation of space]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Chaudhury|first1=Dipanjan Roy|title=Russia puts onus on U.S. for early outer space rules after India's test |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/russia-puts-onus-us-for-early-outer-space-rules-after-indias-test/articleshow/68626644.cms|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=29 March 2019|access-date=22 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330032430/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/defence/russia-puts-onus-us-for-early-outer-space-rules-after-indias-test/articleshow/68626644.cms |archive-date=30 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

==== United States ====
Following the test, acting [[United States Secretary of Defense]] [[Patrick M. Shanahan|Patrick Shanahan]] warned about the risks of space debris caused by ASAT tests, but later added that he did not expect debris from the Indian test to last.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Stewart|first1=Phil|title=U.S. studying India anti-satellite weapons test, warns of space debris|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-usa/us-says-studying-india-anti-satellite-weapons-test-warns-on-debris-idUSKCN1R825Z|agency=Reuters|date=28 March 2019|access-date=22 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329013746/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-usa/us-says-studying-india-anti-satellite-weapons-test-warns-on-debris-idUSKCN1R825Z|archive-date=29 March 2019 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Stewart|first1=Phil|title=U.S. sees India space debris from weapons test eventually burning up|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-usa/u-s-sees-india-space-debris-from-weapons-test-eventually-burning-up-idUSKCN1R91T0|agency=Reuters|date=28 March 2019|access-date=22 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328235207/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-india-satellite-usa/u-s-sees-india-space-debris-from-weapons-test-eventually-burning-up-idUSKCN1R91T0|archive-date=28 March 2019 |url-status=live }}</ref> The [[United States Department of State]] acknowledged [[Ministry of External Affairs (India)|Ministry of External Affairs]]' statement on space debris and reiterated its intention to pursue shared interests in space including on space security with India.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/us-takes-note-of-indias-first-anti-missile-test/article26660703.ece |title=US adopts neutral stand on "Mssion Shakti", to continue space collaboration with India|newspaper=The Hindu Business Line|date=28 March 2019|access-date=22 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328104541/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/us-takes-note-of-indias-first-anti-missile-test/article26660703.ece|archive-date=28 March 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Jim Bridenstine]], the head of [[NASA]], called the Indian ASAT test a "terrible thing", pointing out that debris from the explosion endangers other satellites and the [[International Space Station]] (ISS).<ref>{{cite news|title='A terrible thing': India's destruction of satellite threatens ISS, says Nasa|url=https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/apr/02/a-terrible-thing-nasa-condemns-indias-destruction-of-satellite-and-resulting-space-junk|newspaper=The Guardian|date=2 April 2019|access-date=21 April 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423122147/https://www.theguardian.com/science/2019/apr/02/a-terrible-thing-nasa-condemns-indias-destruction-of-satellite-and-resulting-space-junk|archive-date=23 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/02/world/asia/nasa-india-space-debris.html|title=NASA Says Debris From India's Antisatellite Test Puts Space Station at Risk|last=Schultz|first=Kai|date=2019-04-02|newspaper=The New York Times|access-date=2019-12-04|issn=0362-4331|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190506050149/https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/02/world/asia/nasa-india-space-debris.html|archive-date=6 May 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

Acting [[United States Strategic Command|U.S. Strategic Command]] commander General [[John E. Hyten]] told members of the [[United States Senate Committee on Armed Services|Senate Armed Services Committee]] that the Indians conducted the ASAT test because they were "concerned about threats to their nation from space" while responding to a question from senators on the need for India to do such tests.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pentagon-defends-indias-a-s-test-says-country-is-concerned-over-threats-in-space/articleshow/68842379.cms|title=ASAT Test: Pentagon defends India's A-Sat test, says country is concerned over "threats" in space|date=12 April 2019|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=2019-08-03|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190825053503/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/pentagon-defends-indias-a-s-test-says-country-is-concerned-over-threats-in-space/articleshow/68842379.cms|archive-date=25 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Significance ==
[[File:ASAT test 2020 stamp of India.jpg|thumb|upright=1.0|right|A 2020 Indian stamp dedicated to the ASAT test.]]

The test is considered to hold significance due to the following reasons:<ref>{{cite web|url=https://thediplomat.com/2019/03/indias-leap-in-space-the-significance-of-the-first-indian-anti-satellite-test/ |title=India's Leap in Space: The Significance of the First Indian Anti-Satellite Test|last=Pant|first=Harsh V.|website=thediplomat.com|access-date=2019-11-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401165533/https://thediplomat.com/2019/03/indias-leap-in-space-the-significance-of-the-first-indian-anti-satellite-test/|archive-date=1 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

* It gives India the capability to degrade and destroy the communication, reconnaissance and intelligence gathering capabilities of countries by taking out their space-based assets. It is a deterrent in effect,<ref name=":4"/> deterring similar actions by hostile nations.<ref name=":0"/><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/enemy-can-go-deaf-blind/749191.html|title=Enemy can go 'deaf, blind'|date=28 March 2019|work=The Tribune|access-date=7 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401072649/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/enemy-can-go-deaf-blind/749191.html|archive-date=1 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref>

* It shows that India has the capability to [[Anti-ballistic missile|intercept]] [[Intercontinental ballistic missile]]s (ICBM) outside the atmosphere.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/asat-test-shows-india-has-means-to-destroy-icbms-in-outer-space-experts-119042200713_1.html|title=ASAT test shows India has means to destroy ICBMs in outer space: Experts |last=Kumar|first=Bhaswar|date=2019-04-22|newspaper=Business Standard India|access-date=2019-08-07|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190807064526/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/asat-test-shows-india-has-means-to-destroy-icbms-in-outer-space-experts-119042200713_1.html|archive-date=7 August 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{cite web |url=https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/May/din-03may2019.pdf|title=Defence Research and Development Organisation ASAT test|date=3 May 2019|publisher=Defence Research and Development Organisation|access-date=10 August 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190810061625/https://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/pub/npc/2019/May/din-03may2019.pdf|archive-date=10 August 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref>

* The test potentially enables India to claim the right to be involved in the formation of future international norms and guidelines with regards to militarisation of [[outer space]].<ref>{{cite web |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/a-rightful-place-in-space-anti-satellite-asat-mission-shakti-drdo-pm-modi-isro-5647570/|title=The successful ASAT test has earned India its rightful place on the high table|date=2019-03-29|newspaper=The Indian Express|access-date=2019-11-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401193128/https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/a-rightful-place-in-space-anti-satellite-asat-mission-shakti-drdo-pm-modi-isro-5647570/|archive-date=1 April 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.orfonline.org/research/having-tested-its-asat-capability-india-should-help-shape-global-space-norms-49384/|title=Having tested its ASAT capability, India should help shape global space norms|last=Rajagopalan|first=Rajeswari Pillai|date=29 March 2019 |publisher=Observer Research Foundation|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191127211424/https://www.orfonline.org/research/having-tested-its-asat-capability-india-should-help-shape-global-space-norms-49384/|archive-date=27 November 2019|access-date=2019-11-27}}</ref>

== See also ==
{{Portal|Spaceflight}}
* [[Anti-satellite weapon]]
* [[Kill vehicle]]
* [[Militarisation of space]]
* [[Space weapon]]
* [[Space warfare]]
* [[Indian Ballistic Missile Defence Programme]]
* [[Indian Space Research Organization]]
* [[Defence Research and Development Organisation]]

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
* {{URL|https://www.drdo.gov.in/sites/default/files/video_storage/Mission_Shakti.mp4|Official video about the test containing actual footage}} ''Defence Research and Development Organisation'' [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KRs79t6z7fc Alternative link]

{{Politics of outer space|state=collapsed}}

[[Category:Intentionally destroyed artificial satellites]]
[[Category:Satellite collisions]]
[[Category:March 2019 events in India]]
[[Category:2019 in spaceflight]]
[[Category:Space programme of India]]

Bharatpedia - User contributions [en]

Mission Shakti