Space Security in the Indo-Pacific

Abstract

The Indo-Pacific region is going through a geopolitical flux. This is reflected in the space security domain as well, with many Indo-Pacific space programs assuming a military space character. The establishment of dedicated military space institutions and the adoption of defence space strategies by a number of Indo- Pacific space powers are indicative of the securitization of space. This essay provides an analytical overview of the changing space security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific. This overview examines the many contextualizing factors – including the US-China space rivalry, the growth of counter-space capabilities, and the crowded and contested nature of space – each of which has contributed to the changing space security dynamics. The article concludes with some comments about what the future of space security might look like and the possible Indian role, especially as it relates to space security governance. Space security, Indo-Pacific, Counter-space capabilities, ASATs, Anti-satellite weapons, Cyber and electronic warfare in space, Directed Energy Weapons, Global governance, space governance, PLASSF, Defence Space Agency