India is the fourth country after the United States, Russia and China to have used an anti-satellite weapon to destroy a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced that India has successfully tested an anti-satellite missile today. Speaking in a televised address, he said that India shot down a Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite, which was a pre-determined target. India has become a ?space superpower? with the successful testing of the anti-satellite weapon. India would only be the fourth country to have used such an anti-satellite weapon after the United States, Russia and China.
In his address, PM Modi said: ?A short while ago, India shot down a LEO satellite by anti-satellite missile. It was conducted under Mission Shakti, which was completed in three minutes.? PM Modi.
A Low Earth Orbit (LEO) refers to an Earth-centered orbit at an altitude of 2,000 km. A-SAT is a weapon system that is designed to destroy or incapacitate satellites.
The prime minister added: ?A-SAT missile will give new strength to India?s space programme. I assure the international community that our capability won?t be used against anyone. It is purely India?s defense initiative for its security. We are against arms raised in space. This test does not breach any international law or treaties.
