India is taking another step towards strengthening its indigenous space and defence technology capabilities, with the Technology Development Board (TDB), operating under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), signing an agreement with Bengaluru-based Astrome Technologies Pvt Ltd to support the development of an advanced artificial intelligence-enabled satellite intelligence system. Under the agreement, the company will receive ₹64.05 crore in financial assistance through the government’s Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund.
The project, valued at approximately ₹128.11 crore, aims to establish a sovereign space-based Artificial Intelligence-enabled Electronic Intelligence (AI-ELINT) satellite constellation for national security applications. The initiative is designed to reduce dependence on external technologies by developing an integrated intelligence system using domestically developed satellite hardware, artificial intelligence and advanced space communication technologies.
At the centre of the programme is the development of 50 kg-class microsatellites equipped with Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) payloads. These satellites are intended to operate together as a constellation in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), allowing the network to collect and process electronic signals across a broad range of frequencies. Such capabilities can support the identification and analysis of electronic emissions, providing valuable intelligence for national security requirements.
Artificial intelligence will play an important role in the proposed system. Astrome Technologies will develop AI-based ground processing software to analyse information collected by the satellites and improve the efficiency of data processing. The project also includes the development of inter-satellite communication links, enabling individual satellites to exchange information and function as part of a connected network.
The proposed constellation is expected to improve geographical coverage and increase the frequency with which specific areas of interest can be observed as additional satellites are deployed. By integrating signal detection, AI-based analysis and satellite-to-satellite communication, the programme seeks to create a more connected and efficient space-based electronic intelligence capability.
The project will involve technology development, engineering, system integration, testing and validation, with the objective of advancing its core technologies from Technology Readiness Level (TRL)-4 to TRL-9. This progression represents the movement from an early technology validation stage towards a system demonstrated in an operational environment.
TDB Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak highlighted the importance of indigenous innovation in developing advanced space technology platforms. He noted that combining Indian engineering capabilities with artificial intelligence and next-generation communication systems would create opportunities for developing sophisticated technologies to address emerging national requirements. He also emphasised the role of the RDI Fund in supporting Indian enterprises working on strategically important deep-tech projects.
An authorised representative of Astrome Technologies stated that the financial support would accelerate the development and integration of critical technologies for its AI-enabled space intelligence programme. The company aims to bring together indigenous ELINT payloads, AI-driven data processing and inter-satellite communication capabilities to develop an integrated satellite constellation.
The agreement reflects India’s growing focus on building self-reliant capabilities across the space and defence technology sectors. With electronic intelligence, artificial intelligence and satellite communications becoming increasingly important for modern security systems, the proposed AI-ELINT constellation could contribute to strengthening India’s indigenous intelligence infrastructure.
Through this partnership, TDB and Astrome Technologies aim to advance critical space technologies towards operational readiness, supporting India’s broader ambitions in strategic technology development and national security.