Relevance : GS Paper III
Why has this issue been Raised?
Recently, India carried out a successful test of an Anti-Satellite (ASAT) weapon.
About the ASAT Test
- India became the fourth country to do so after China, U.S. and Russia.
- The test shows that India is not averse to weaponisation of outer space.
- India sought to reassure the world that it has not violated any international treaty or understanding with this test.
Weaponization of Outer Space
- ASAT test, integral to ballistic missile defence programmes, is a military programme.
- The international community may think that India has breached the understanding against militarisation of outer space.
Relevance of ASAT
- ASAT was a Cold War phenomenon whose importance has declined now.
- Currently, no country extols ASAT’s strategic value.
- Countries are increasingly focussing on laser and cyber capabilities.
Pak-China Factor
- Pakistan will immediately try to acquire the same capability.
- China can become wary and take appropriate counter-measures.
Way forward for India
- India should play down the military objective of its ASAT test.
- India should assure the world that ASAT is a civilian programme.
Conclusion
ASAT test can damage India’s image as a peaceful and responsible nation.
