In the latest round of global chess, China’s growing collaboration with Pakistan — especially in space tech — has raised quite a few eyebrows in New Delhi. What seemed like just another bilateral handshake is now being seen as a strategic play that could tip the regional balance.
For India, this isn’t just about Pakistan launching a satellite with a little help from Beijing. It’s a signal. A loud one.
What Happened?
Recently, China assisted Pakistan in launching advanced satellites — not just for weather tracking or communications, but with potential military and surveillance capabilities. That’s a big deal. With eyes now potentially hovering over Indian borders from space, India’s security community is on high alert.
This move isn’t just technical collaboration. It’s a strategic partnership in orbit.
India’s Space Doctrine – Time for a Rewrite?
Until now, India’s space programme — driven largely by ISRO — has been proudly peaceful. Focused on satellites for education, disaster management, scientific missions (think Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan), and helping developing nations. But now, experts and defense insiders say India may have to rethink its “no-weaponization” posture.
Because let’s face it — the line between civilian and military space use is getting blurrier by the day.
What Could Change?
Here’s what insiders believe may be coming:
- More dual-use satellites: Think communication and surveillance wrapped in one.
- Space situational awareness (SSA): Keeping better tabs on who’s doing what in orbit.
- Dedicated military space division expansion: India already set up the Defence Space Agency — now it might get more teeth.
- Anti-satellite (ASAT) preparedness: India tested one in 2019. Might be time to upgrade.
It’s Not Just About Pakistan
Yes, China helping Pakistan is concerning. But the bigger picture? China’s becoming a dominant space power, and it’s shaping a new space race in Asia. From satellites to moon bases, it’s rapidly expanding influence — and not just for peaceful exploration.
India can’t afford to stay idealistic while others are playing hardball.
Final Thoughts
This isn’t panic mode — it’s strategy mode. India doesn’t need to militarize space recklessly. But turning a blind eye is no longer an option. China’s move has, in many ways, forced India to re-evaluate its space philosophy.
Space is no longer the final frontier — it’s the next strategic battleground.
