Space cyber security—particularly the protection of satellite communication systems—has become a critical pillar of India’s space infrastructure. These systems enable connectivity in remote and strategic regions, support national security missions, enhance disaster response, power navigation and broadcasting services, and drive numerous economic activities vital to the nation’s growth.
In a significant move toward strengthening this ecosystem, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India, in collaboration with SIA-India, has developed a comprehensive Space Cyber Security Framework and Guidelines. The document was unveiled at the DefSat Conference & Expo 2026, held in New Delhi from 24–26 February 2026.
The guidelines—advisory in nature—aim to enhance cyber preparedness across India’s rapidly expanding space sector. They offer a structured approach for diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, satellite communication service providers, ground station operators, equipment manufacturers, and private space enterprises. By outlining core cyber security principles, recommended controls, and clearly assigned responsibilities, the framework seeks to instill a culture of proactive risk management, accountability, and resilience across the sector.
Dr. Sanjay Bahl, Director General, CERT-In, said “CERT-In remains steadfast in strengthening the cyber resilience of all sectors across Bharat. Recognizing the strategic importance of space systems—including satellite communication networks—to India’s technological sovereignty and future growth, these comprehensive guidelines establish a unified and forward-looking framework. By considering defense in depth, breadth, and height, they safeguard satellite networks, ground infrastructure, space-related supply chains, and space assets against the rapidly evolving and increasingly sophisticated cyber threat landscape.”
Dr. Subba Rao Pavuluri, President, SIA-India, highlighted the importance of industry collaboration, saying, “Public–private partnership and industry insights are fundamental to strengthening cyber resilience in any sector. This joint guideline document reflects a holistic and collaborative approach, combining industry perspectives with CERT-In’s deep cyber security expertise. Together, they mark a significant step in advancing the cyber security posture of India’s space sector and strengthening its preparedness against emerging digital threats.”
Anil Prakash, Director General, SIA-India, said “India’s expanding space ecosystem now requires cybersecurity to move from a technical afterthought to a core pillar of mission assurance. The joint framework institutionalizes resilience across satellites, ground systems, and supply chains—especially critical at a time when over 1.5 million cyberattack attempts were recorded during Operation Sindoor and attacks on government networks surged nearly sevenfold. These guidelines, based on an adaptive model, will be periodically updated through structured industry consultations to stay aligned with emerging threats and technological advancements. For industry, this is a clear call to adopt secure-by-design architectures and integrate innovation with national security priorities.”
CERT-In, designated as the national agency for incident response under Section 70B of the Information Technology Act, 2000, operates a 24×7 incident response helpdesk and provides a range of incident prevention, response, and security quality management services.
SIA-India, a non-profit body representing India’s space industry, counts satellite operators, manufacturers, suppliers, startups, academic institutes, and legal firms among its members. The association works to represent industry concerns in policy and regulatory forums, supports global collaborations, and acts as a vital interface between the industry and the government.
