To strengthen India's indigenous space-based intelligence capabilities, the Technology Development Board (TDB) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have signed an agreement with M/s Astrome Technologies Private Limited. This agreement has been made to provide financial assistance of ₹64.05 crore under the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund.
The total cost of this project, undertaken with Bengaluru-based company Astrome Technologies, is ₹128.11 crore. Its main objective is to develop a sovereign space-based Artificial Intelligence-enabled Electronic Intelligence (AI-ELINT) constellation for national security applications. This programme seeks to advance critical technologies from Technology Readiness Level-4 to TRL-9.
Key components and technology of the project
This programme brings together three key technology components—an Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) payload, AI-based ground processing software, and inter-satellite communication links. The project envisages the development and progressive deployment of AI-ELINT microsatellites in the 50 kg class.
The proposed constellation architecture is designed around satellites operating in low Earth orbit. Technology Development Board Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak said that through the RDI Fund, TDB is supporting Indian enterprises working on pioneering technologies that can strengthen the country's strategic technology capabilities.