SIA-India and ISAC forge Space Cybersecurity Alliance
The Indian space economy is currently valued at $8.4 billion and is projected to reach $44 billion by 2033
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Hyderabad: SIA-India (Satcom Industry Association) and ISAC (Information Sharing and Analysis Centre) have collaborated to develop common platform cybersecurity standards within the space sector. This partnership, initiated with the signing of an MoU in February 2024, aims to establish comprehensive space cyber standards to enhance security across the space and defence domains.
The collaboration between SIA-India and ISAC includes the creation of cybersecurity benchmarks and regular security drills to strengthen incident response capabilities against cyber threats targeting extraterrestrial networks.
In addition to setting new standards, both organizations plan to introduce specialized training and certification programs for space professionals to safeguard vital space infrastructure. Furthermore, they aim to establish a space cybersecurity lab to facilitate research and collaboration.
India's space sector is transforming rapidly, with ISRO and the private sector playing pivotal roles. The Indian space economy is currently valued at $8.4 billion and is projected to reach $44 billion by 2033. The emergence of over 200 startups, coupled with ISRO's ambitious plans, has elevated India's space efforts to new heights. Securing space assets is now imperative to safeguard billions in GDP and from a national security perspective. Globally, attacks on space infrastructure have surged. In February 2022, the UK alone faced eighty-three data breaches, putting over five million records at risk. The NotPetya cyber-attack inflicted substantial damage, with Ukraine bearing 80% of infections and global financial losses estimated at $6 trillion in 2021. Cybersecurity discussions between the US and Russia remain ongoing with increasing military reliance on accurate navigation systems.
“Experts warn of the high risk posed by global cyberattacks on satellite infrastructure, which could lead to dire consequences. underscoring the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. SIA-India and ISAC's timely collaboration aims to create a cohesive framework for safeguarding space infrastructure. Standardization ensures a unified approach to security measures, while specialized training equips professionals with the skills needed to proactively identify and mitigate cyber threats." – Anil Prakash, Director General SIA-India.
The collaboration between SIA-India and ISAC represents a significant milestone in enhancing space cybersecurity standards. By leveraging expertise and fostering innovation, both organizations are committed to ensuring the integrity and security of space infrastructure. As India continues its journey as a global space leader, cybersecurity remains a pivotal focus area for sustainable space exploration.
The Space Enterprise Council is the leading voice for global space policy and advocacy, promoting space cooperation, and the intersection of space, emerging technology, data, and cybersecurity across commercial, civil, and national security sectors. It is an affiliate membership program of the Information Technology Industry Council (ITI).
SIA-India, a dynamic, not-for-profit space sector association, is dedicated to advancing sectoral interests, accelerating industry growth, and catalysing innovation through strategic engagements with key governmental and global stakeholders, policymakers, regulatory bodies, and standardization entities, aiming to create a vibrant and innovative ecosystem within the space.
