Indian Air Force Establishes Space Training Cell to Counter Hypersonic Threats

The Indian Air Force has inaugurated a Space Training Cell at the College of Air Warfare in Hyderabad to prepare personnel for near-space operations, addressing the challenges posed by hypersonic ballistic missiles. This initiative expands the IAF's operational altitude from 20 km to the near-space domain of 20-100 km, supported by the Defence Space Agency's intelligence capabilities. Plans for a near-space wing by 2030 aim to integrate manned fighters and UAVs, responding to regional threats from China and Pakistan's hypersonic advancements.

Published Mar 20, 2026

The Indian Air Force has launched a Space Training Cell at the College of Air Warfare in Hyderabad to train personnel for near-space operations, aiming to counter hypersonic ballistic missiles. This initiative extends the IAF's operational altitude responsibilities from 20 km to the near-space domain of 20-100 km.

AI-curated by Theia

The Defence Space Agency, established in 2019, supports these operations with space-based intelligence and surveillance capabilities. Future plans include a near-space wing by 2030, integrating manned fighters and UAVs. The IAF's efforts respond to regional threats from China and Pakistan's hypersonic programs, emphasizing the need for advanced interception strategies and technologies.