Prime Minister
Narendra Modi Wednesday addressed the nation to declare the success of Mission Shakti, India’s first test of an anti-satellite weapon. With this, India becomes the fourth country, after US, China and Russia, with the capability to destroy a low-orbit satellite and thus establish itself as a space power.
The team of scientists were able to accomplish this feat within a span of 3 minutes, PM Modi said, adding this was a ‘proud moment’ for Indians. Mission Shakti has ensured that it secures a place in the space power league.
Anti-satellite weapons (ASAT) are created to destroy or incapacitate satellites. There are many countries which have this capability, but only four countries — including India — have demonstrated their ASAT capabilities.
The US first tested ASAT technology in 1958, the USSR followed in 1964 and China in 2007. In 2015, Russia tested its PL-19 Nudol missile and followed it up with other tests.
After China’s test in 2007, the first after US tested in 1985, many countries criticised the move and underlines the “serious consequences of engaging in the militarisation of space”. China sought to allay the fears by saying it would not “participate in any kind of arms race in outer space”. China had earlier publicly advocated a ban on space weapons.
“A-SAT missile will give new strength to India’s space prog. I assure the international community that our capability won’t be used against anyone but is purely India’s defence initiative for its security. We are against arms raised in space. This test won’t breach any international law or treaties,” PM Modi said.
