Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers.
Here are the key highlights of PM Modi's address:
- India has entered its name as an elite space power. An anti-satellite weapon A-SAT successfully targeted a live satellite on a low earth orbit.
- 'Mission Shakti' operation was a difficult target to achieve which was completed successfully within three minutes of launch.
- Today, we have enough satellites that are contributing in various segments such as agriculture, disaster management, communication, weather, navigation etc.
- 'Mission Shakti' is an important step towards securing India's safety, economic growth and technological advancement.
- Today is 27th March. A while ago, India achieved a historic feat. India today registered itself as a space power. Till now, 3 countries of the world- America, Russia, and China had this achievement. India is the 4th country to have achieved this feat.
- A-SAT missile will give new strength to India's space prog. I assure the international community that our capability won't be used against anyone but is purely India's defence initiative for its security. We are against arms raised in space. This test won't breach any international law or treaties.
- In the journey of every nation, there are moments that bring utmost pride and have a historic impact on generations to come. One such moment is today. India has successfully tested the Anti-Satellite (ASAT) Missile. Congratulations to everyone on the success of Mission Shakti.
- Mission Shakti was a highly complex one, conducted at extremely high speed with remarkable precision. It shows the remarkable dexterity of India’s outstanding scientists and the success of our space programme.
- Mission Shakti is special for two reasons: First, India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised and modern capability. Second, Entire effort is indigenous.
- India stands tall as a space power! It will make India stronger, even more secure and will further peace and harmony.
