India’s rapidly expanding space ecosystem has received a significant cybersecurity reinforcement with the release of joint Space Cyber Security Guidelines by CERT-In and SIA-India. The framework was officially introduced during the DefSat Conference and Expo 2026 in New Delhi, signaling a coordinated effort to safeguard the country’s growing space assets from evolving digital threats.
The guidelines have been designed as a comprehensive reference for the entire space value chain. This includes satellite operators, ground station managers, equipment manufacturers, private space startups, and government agencies. With satellite communication playing a crucial role in national security, disaster response, navigation, connectivity, and broadcasting services, officials emphasized that strengthening cybersecurity is no longer optional but essential.
The newly launched framework outlines key principles, recommended safeguards, and defined responsibilities for stakeholders across the ecosystem. By establishing a structured roadmap, the document aims to create a unified approach to identifying, managing, and mitigating cyber risks affecting space-based and ground-based infrastructure.
Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General of CERT-In, described the guidelines as a flexible yet comprehensive resource to protect not only satellites in orbit but also supporting ground infrastructure, supply chains, and digital networks. He noted that the increasing sophistication of cyber threats demands proactive planning and coordinated defense mechanisms.
SIA-India President Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in drafting the framework. He stressed that the future of India’s space ambitions depends on strong partnerships that ensure resilience against emerging cyber vulnerabilities.
Further underscoring the urgency of the initiative, SIA-India Director General Anil Prakash referred to Operation Sindoor, during which more than 1.5 million cyberattack attempts were recorded, along with a nearly sevenfold spike in attacks targeting government networks. These figures reinforced the need for immediate and structured cybersecurity measures within the space sector.
A central theme of the guidelines is the adoption of a secure-by-design philosophy. Stakeholders are encouraged to integrate cybersecurity measures from the earliest stages of system development rather than applying fixes after deployment. The framework also calls for regular reviews and systematic updates to keep pace with India’s expanding space capabilities and the constantly evolving cyber threat landscape.
Industry observers view the release of these guidelines as a timely and strategic step toward building a resilient, future-ready space ecosystem that can withstand complex digital challenges while supporting India’s long-term space ambitions.a
