The Hidden Vulnerabilities: Satellite Warfare and Its Threat to Digital India
In an increasingly interconnected world, satellites form the backbone of modern communication, navigation, and financial systems. India's Digital India initiative has propelled the nation into a digital economy, with widespread adoption of online banking and Unified Payments Interface (UPI). However, the rise of satellite warfare—where nations deploy anti-satellite (ASAT) weapons to disrupt or destroy orbital assets—poses a significant risk. This article explores how such disruptions could unravel India's digital progress, particularly for those reliant on digital banking and UPI, and outlines strategies to mitigate these threats. Understanding Satellite Warfare Satellite warfare refers to conflicts involving the targeting of satellites to gain strategic advantages, often through ASAT weapons. These systems aim to incapacitate or destroy satellites, disrupting enemy operations dependent on space-based infrastructure. What Are Anti-Satellite Weapons? ASAT weapons are designed to...
