Satellite imagery played a pivotal, though often unseen, role in the Indo-Pakistani wars, especially during conflicts from the 1960s onwards. Initially, the technology’s contribution was limited by resolution and accessibility, but its strategic importance steadily increased as capabilities improved. During the 1965 war, satellite reconnaissance was in its infancy. The US’s CORONA program, while operational, provided limited coverage of the region, and the information shared with either India or Pakistan, if any, remains largely classified. More crucial were on-the-ground intelligence and aerial reconnaissance. However, even early satellite data could offer broad situational awareness, highlighting troop movements or potential build-up zones that traditional methods might miss. The 1971 war, leading to the creation of Bangladesh, saw a marked increase in the value of satellite intelligence. Both India and Pakistan likely leveraged information gleaned from various sources, including potentially from third-party nations with access to satellite imagery. While direct access to high-resolution imagery was limited, broad strategic assessments could be made. Satellite data aided in identifying key infrastructure targets, tracking naval deployments, and monitoring troop concentrations along the border. The conflict’s geographical complexity, particularly in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), made satellite observation even more valuable. The Kargil War in 1999 demonstrated the significant advancements in satellite technology and its impact on conflict. High-resolution commercial satellites were now available, offering unprecedented detail. India, lacking its own advanced military surveillance satellites at the time, relied heavily on imagery purchased from foreign sources, including US and European companies. These images were crucial in confirming the presence of Pakistani troops and militants occupying strategic positions on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC). Satellite images provided irrefutable evidence of Pakistani intrusion, which India presented to the international community, bolstering its diplomatic position. The imagery helped Indian military planners understand the scale and nature of the incursion, enabling them to formulate effective counter-strategies. Detailed views of enemy bunkers and supply lines aided in targeting artillery strikes and air operations. Real-time or near-real-time satellite data significantly enhanced situational awareness for Indian commanders, facilitating informed decision-making. Following Kargil, India invested heavily in developing its own robust satellite surveillance capabilities. Today, India possesses a constellation of military and dual-use satellites providing high-resolution imagery, radar-based surveillance (allowing for observation through cloud cover), and communication support. These assets play a vital role in monitoring border regions, tracking potential threats, and providing crucial intelligence during times of tension. Pakistan too, has been developing its own satellite capabilities. The future of Indo-Pakistani relations will likely see an increasing reliance on satellite-based surveillance, not only for strategic advantage but also for verifying ceasefire agreements and monitoring confidence-building measures. The “eye in the sky” offers a crucial, albeit detached, perspective on a complex and often volatile relationship.
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