The ISRO conducted its mock dogfight between two satellites just months after the US called attention to some Chinese satellites doing the same. The reports show that the satellites used in this exercise are the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX) satellites.

Two ISRO SpaDeX Satellites Engage In A Mock Dogfight Exercise

Satellite dogfighting seems to be becoming a new trend in the space industry, as the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) participates in it. On 4 May 2025, Deccan Herald reported that two SpaDeX satellites operated by the ISRO engaged in a space satellite dogfight.

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The satellites in question are the SDX01 and the SDX02, with the first being the chaser and the second being the target. Both satellites engaged in close-quarter orbital manoeuvres at speeds reaching 28,800 km-h.

This autonomous satellite operation has its uses during warfare, where one satellite can attack another or defend itself from similar attacks. The ISRO didn’t partake in this mock dogfight exercise to show their satellite combat abilities, but to show its effectiveness in civilian uses, such as applications in space stations.

While there is no information on the ISRO’s true intentions with this dogfighting ability, we know it has dual-use applications. The US is already expressing security concerns over the fact that China’s satellites can also engage in satellite dogfighting.

To complete this mock dogfight, the ISRO had to rely on the Bhartiya Docking System to bring both satellites within 3 meters of each other. Other systems that are in use during this exercise are the satellites’ proximity sensors, laser rangefinders, and an Inter-Satellite Communication Link (ISL).

Is Satellite Dogfighting Becoming More Rampant?

In 2024 Chinese satellites were observed engaging in what we know as satellite dogfighting. According to official reports, US assets were able to observe five different objects in space manoeuvring in and out in synchronicity and control.

The US expressed concerns that this ability can be used against its assets in space through various manoeuvring techniques. Now India is showing off its satellite dogfighting ability in space using their SpaDeX satellites.

While this ability shows the technical advancement of satellites from China and India, regions might follow the US footsteps and view it as a security concern. We might also see other space agencies develop satellites with technology that enables them to engage in satellite dogfighting while in orbit.