THEBUSINESSBTES BUREAU
NEW DELHI, FEBRUARY 26, 2026
In a significant move to fortify India’s rapidly expanding space sector
against escalating digital threats, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team
(CERT-In) and SIA-India have jointly released comprehensive Space Cyber
Security guidelines, marking a decisive step towards safeguarding the nation’s
satellite and space communication infrastructure.
Unveiled at the DefSat Conference & Expo-2026 in New Delhi, the
framework underscores the critical role of cyber security in protecting satellite
communication systems that enable connectivity in remote and strategic regions,
support national security operations, strengthen disaster response, and power
navigation, broadcasting, and economic services vital to India’s growth and
resilience.
Developed by CERT-In under the Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology in collaboration with SIA-India, the guidelines provide an advisory
yet structured roadmap for securing space communication assets and enhancing
the overall cyber preparedness of the space ecosystem. The framework is
designed to support a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including government
agencies, satellite service providers, ground station operators, equipment
manufacturers, and private space companies. By defining core cyber security
principles, recommended safeguards, and clear roles and responsibilities, it
aims to institutionalise resilience, accountability, and proactive risk
management 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 to safeguard satellite
networks, ground infrastructure, space related supply chains and space assets
against the rapidly evolving and increasingly sophisticated cyber threat
landscape.”
Highlighting the importance of industry collaboration, Dr. Subba Rao
Pavuluri, President, SIA-India, said “Public Private Partnership and the
considered views of industry are fundamental to strengthening cyber resilience
across any sector. This joint guideline document issued by CERT-In and SIA
India reflect a holistic and collaborative approach, integrating industry
perspectives with the deep cyber security expertise of CERT-In. Together, they
mark a significant step forward in advancing the cyber security posture of
India’s space sector and reinforcing its preparedness against emerging digital
threats.”
Anil Prakash, Director General, SIA-India, underscored “India’s expanding space ecosystem now requires cybersecurity to evolve from a technical afterthought into a core pillar of mission assurance. The joint framework developed with CERT-In institutionalizes resilience across satellites, ground infrastructure, and supply chains — particularly significant at a time when over 1.5 million cyberattack attempts were recorded during Operation Sindoor and attacks on government networks surged nearly sevenfold. In this evolving threat landscape, critical infrastructure and industry are equally vulnerable. Importantly, these cyber guidelines are based on an adaptive model and will be periodically refined through structured industry consultation to remain responsive to emerging threats and technological advancements. For industry, this is a clear call to adopt secure-by-design architectures and align innovation with national security imperatives.”
