India's border surveillance and defense capabilities are set to receive a significant boost with the upcoming launch of the EOS-09 satellite, scheduled for May 18, 2025. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) will launch the EOS-09, also known as RISAT-1B, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. The satellite will be carried into a sun-synchronous orbit by the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61).
EOS-09 is a radar imaging satellite equipped with a state-of-the-art C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR). This advanced technology enables the satellite to capture high-resolution images of the Earth's surface regardless of weather conditions, day or night. Unlike optical satellites that are hindered by cloud cover or darkness, EOS-09's radar can penetrate these barriers, providing continuous and reliable intelligence. The satellite weighs approximately 1,710 kg and will operate in a polar, sun-synchronous orbit at an altitude of around 529 km. The approximate cost of the EOS-09 project is ₹490 crore.
The primary mission of EOS-09 is to enhance India's Earth observation capabilities, with a particular focus on border surveillance and national security. The satellite's ability to provide all-weather, round-the-clock imaging is crucial for monitoring sensitive border areas, detecting infiltrations, tracking suspicious movements, and supporting anti-terrorist operations. According to ISRO sources, EOS-09 will play a vital role in strengthening surveillance along the India-Pakistan border. The launch is being expedited in response to recent security incidents, highlighting the urgency of bolstering India's defense preparedness.
EOS-09 is a follow-on to the RISAT-1 satellite, with a similar configuration. It is the sixth in the RISAT series of satellites developed by ISRO. The RISAT series was initially conceived to bolster border surveillance and deter infiltration. Satellites like RISAT-2BR1, launched in 2019, have already proven their worth in safeguarding the nation. The series was designed to enhance India's ability to monitor terrorist activities and ensure swift responses to potential threats.
EOS-09 complements and supplements data from other Earth observation satellites, such as Resourcesat, Cartosat, and the RISAT-2B series. The satellite's SAR technology reduces reliance on foreign systems, ensuring that India's surveillance capabilities remain sovereign and secure. With its advanced imaging capabilities, EOS-09 can detect underground bunkers, hidden artillery positions, and even adversarial submarines.
India is also planning to augment its space-based surveillance capabilities with a constellation of 52 satellites over the next five years. This initiative involves collaboration between ISRO and the private sector, with the aim of strengthening defense sector monitoring and coordination. These satellites will be equipped with synthetic aperture radar (SAR), advanced sensors, and imaging systems, and will operate in LEO, MEO, and possibly GEO orbits.
In addition to satellites, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is also procuring three 'pseudo satellites' or High-Altitude Platform Systems (HAPS) to bridge the surveillance gap between AWACS and satellites. These solar-powered platforms can loiter in the stratosphere for months, providing persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
The launch of EOS-09 and the broader efforts to enhance space-based surveillance underscore India's commitment to using space assets for both civilian and strategic purposes. By strengthening its border monitoring and defense capabilities, India aims to ensure its national security and maintain stability in the region.
