What is ASAT and how can it be used in war?
ASAT is essentially a missile that can destroy or jam an enemy country's satellite in space. Until now, only USA, Russia and China had operational ASAT systems.
- Mar 27, 2019,
- Updated Mar 27, 2019 5:31 PM IST
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement today that India has successfully tested an anti-satellite weapon (ASAT) has suddenly drawn the spotlight on space warfare. The Prime Minister said that the successful test showed India's military prowess and the country had entered an elite ASAT club. Until now, only USA, Russia and China had operational ASAT systems.
But, what is ASAT and how does it boost India's military might? It's essentially a missile that can destroy or jam an enemy country's satellite in space. Since most of the communication networks are satellite-based, this can have a disastrous impact on the country whose satellite gets targeted.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement today that India has successfully tested an anti-satellite weapon (ASAT) has suddenly drawn the spotlight on space warfare. The Prime Minister said that the successful test showed India's military prowess and the country had entered an elite ASAT club. Until now, only USA, Russia and China had operational ASAT systems.
But, what is ASAT and how does it boost India's military might? It's essentially a missile that can destroy or jam an enemy country's satellite in space. Since most of the communication networks are satellite-based, this can have a disastrous impact on the country whose satellite gets targeted.