Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had joined the elite club of space powers by shooting down a low earth orbit (LEO) satellite with an anti-satellite missile or A-SAT.
Addressing the nation on the success of what he called “Mission Shakti”. PM Modi called it a test of India’s capability to shoot down low orbit satellites.
“India has successfully tested the Anti-Satellite Missile. Within 3 mins, India destroyed a Low Earth Orbit satellite 300 km away through #ASAT; #MissionShakti is an important step towards securing India’s safety, economic growth and technological advancement,” said Modi.
PM Modi further said, “I want to assure the world community today that this new capability we have achieved is not against anybody. India has always been against arms race in space and there has been no change in this policy with today’s test.”
“In the journey of every nation there are moments that bring utmost pride and have a historic impact on generations to come. One such moment is today. India has successfully tested the Anti-Satellite (ASAT) Missile. Congratulations to everyone on the success of Mission Shakti,” Modi added.
He further said, “Mission Shakti was a highly complex one, conducted at extremely high speed with remarkable precision. It shows the remarkable dexterity of India’s outstanding scientists and the success of our space programme.”
Modi said, Mission Shakti is special for 2 reasons:
(1) India is only the 4th country to acquire such a specialised & modern capability.
(2) Entire effort is indigenous.
India stands tall as a space power! It will make India stronger, even more secure and will further peace and harmony.
President Ram Nath Kovind took to his twitter account and tweeted, “#MissionShakti represents a watershed moment for India. Testing of the Anti-Satellite Missile demonstrates India’s scientific prowess and commitment to harnessing space technology for the security and empowerment of our people. My congratulations to all concerned.”
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu complimented the scientists on their successful launch of anti-satellite missile
“Compliment our Scientists on their successful launch of anti-satellite missile. We, as a nation, are proud of our Scientists,” Naidu tweeted.
