Important for:

UPSC, Haryana HCS, Punjab PCS
Prelims: Outer Space Treaty, satellites
Mains: GS Paper 2 & 3 — International Law, Security, Space

Why in News?

Modern satellites are increasingly dual-use, raising concerns about space warfare, international law, and civilian safety.

What are Dual-Use Satellites?

➤ Satellites used for:

• Civilian purposes (GPS, communication)
• Military purposes (surveillance, targeting)

How They Are Used

Civilian Uses:

• Navigation (GPS)
• Internet & communication

Military Uses:

• Intelligence gathering
• Missile targeting
• Surveillance

Legal Framework

Outer Space Treaty (1967):

• Space for peaceful purposes
• Prohibits weapons of mass destruction

Problem:

➤ Difficult to distinguish:

• Civilian vs military targets

Key Challenges

1. Blurred Distinction

• Civilian satellites used for military support

2. Risk of Conflict

• Targeting satellites may affect civilians

3. Space Debris

• Destruction of satellites creates hazards

4. Legal Ambiguity

• Existing laws not fully equipped

Why This Matters

➤ Space is becoming:

• Strategic military domain

India-Specific Context

• Growing space capabilities
• Need for:
  → Space security strategy

Key Insight for UPSC

→ Technology evolves faster than:

✔ Laws and regulations

PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTIONS

Q1. Dual-use satellites are used for:

A. Only military
B. Only civilian
C. Both civilian and military
D. None

✅ Answer: C

Q2. Outer Space Treaty was signed in:

A. 1950
B. 1967
C. 1975
D. 1980

✅ Answer: B

Q3. GPS is used for:

A. Mining
B. Navigation
C. Agriculture
D. Trade

✅ Answer: B

Q4. Space debris is:

A. Useful
B. Harmful
C. Natural
D. Renewable

✅ Answer: B

Q5. Satellites help in:

A. Surveillance
B. Communication
C. Navigation
D. All of the above

✅ Answer: D

CBL Mains Practice Question

“Emerging technologies like dual-use satellites are challenging existing frameworks of international law.” Discuss.

FAQs

1. What are dual-use satellites?

Satellites used for both civilian and military purposes.

2. Why are they important?

They support communication, navigation, and defence.

3. What is the concern?

Blurring of civilian and military boundaries.

4. What law governs space?

Outer Space Treaty (1967).

5. Which GS papers cover this?

GS2 and GS3.