ISRO to Launch India’s 101st Satellite RISAT-18 on May 18
ISRO Chairman Dr. V. Narayanan announced that the Indian Space Research Organisation will launch its 101st satellite, Earth Observation Satellite RISAT-18, on May 18. The satellite will be launched using the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61) from the Sriharikota launch site.
Dr. Narayanan, while speaking to the media on May 15, said that ISRO's space missions are strategically aligned with ensuring national security. "We successfully launched our 100th rocket in January from Sriharikota. Now, RISAT-18 will further strengthen India's capabilities in monitoring and disaster management," he said.
Focus on National Security
When asked whether ISRO is working on any specific launches for the Indian Armed Forces, Narayanan emphasized that all of ISRO's programs are designed for the safety and security of the country. "We do not compete with any other nation. Our focus is our national interest," he stated.
He also added that 10 satellites are currently monitoring India 24/7 for strategic purposes. Speaking at the convocation ceremony of the Central Agricultural University in Imphal on May 11, he mentioned, "India is becoming an 'energetic space power' and is planning to establish its first space station by 2040."
India’s Expanding Space Reach
Dr. Narayanan said, "India has launched 433 satellites for 34 countries and successfully placed them in orbit. I’m proud to share that 10 of our satellites are continuously working to ensure the safety and surveillance of our citizens."
His comments come in the backdrop of military tensions between India and Pakistan. On May 7, India launched ‘Operation Sindoor’ to target terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in response to the Pahalgam attack.
Following this, both countries agreed to an immediate ceasefire across land, air, and sea military operations. Dr. Narayanan reiterated, “If we want to ensure national security, we must utilize satellite and drone technology. We need to monitor our 7,000 km long coastline and continuously observe the northern regions. This is not possible without advanced surveillance tools like satellites.”