India’s Bahubali moment: Building space power for next-gen warfare

India is rapidly emerging as a space power, recognising that future conflicts may be decided in orbit rather than on Earth. The LVM3 “Bahubali” rocket’s launch of the CMS-03 satellite marks a major step in building military space infrastructure and networked warfare capability. With achievements like Mission Shakti’s anti-satellite test, Chandrayaan-3, and NavIC, India has demonstrated both strategic and technological strength. However, it must accelerate satellite launches, expand private sector participation, and strengthen the Defence Space Agency to secure its position among major powers. Space is fast becoming India’s next strategic frontier for national security and technological dominance.