Which satellite was launched by ISRO in 2018 to boost armed forces' communication capabilities?
GSAT-7A
Understanding ISRO Satellites for Defence Communication
The question asks about a specific satellite launched by ISRO in 2018 aimed at improving the communication abilities of the armed forces. Let's look at the options provided and their roles.
- Cartosat-2: This series of satellites is primarily used for earth observation, providing high-resolution images for various purposes including mapping, urban planning, and coastal land use regulation. While useful, its main function is not communication for the armed forces.
- EMISAT: Launched in 2019, EMISAT is an electronic intelligence satellite designed to measure the electromagnetic spectrum. Its role is related to surveillance and intelligence, not primarily communication.
- GSAT-7A: This satellite, launched in December 2018, is a geostationary communication satellite specifically designed to provide communication services to the Indian Air Force (IAF). It enhances network-centric warfare capabilities and improves communication links between ground radar stations, airbases, and aircraft. This aligns directly with the description of boosting armed forces' communication.
- GSAT-29: Also launched in November 2018, GSAT-29 is a high-throughput communication satellite primarily intended to provide high-speed internet connectivity to remote areas in Jammu and Kashmir and North-Eastern regions of India. While a communication satellite, its primary focus is civilian connectivity, not specific defence communication links for the armed forces like GSAT-7A.
Based on the function and the launch year (2018), the satellite specifically designed to boost the armed forces' communication capabilities is GSAT-7A.
Detailed Analysis of GSAT-7A
GSAT-7A is a advanced communication satellite built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). Key details include:
- Launch Date: December 19, 2018
- Launch Vehicle: GSLV-F11
- Orbit: Geostationary orbit
- Primary User: Indian Air Force (IAF)
- Purpose: To provide secure communication links, enhance network-centric operations, and connect various airborne and ground assets.
This satellite is often referred to as the "Angry Bird" satellite due to its military application, similar to its predecessor GSAT-7 (Rukmini) which serves the Indian Navy.
Comparison of 2018 ISRO Communication Satellites
ISRO had a busy year in 2018 with several launches. Focusing on communication satellites launched that year:
| Satellite | Launch Date (2018) | Primary Role | Key User/Beneficiary |
|---|---|---|---|
| GSAT-29 | November 14 | High-throughput communication, high-speed internet | Remote Indian regions (J&K, NE) |
| GSAT-7A | December 19 | Advanced communication for armed forces (Air Force) | Indian Air Force (IAF) |
This table clearly shows that GSAT-7A is the satellite launched in 2018 specifically for the armed forces' communication needs.
Revision Table: Key ISRO Satellites
| Satellite Series/Name | Primary Function | Examples/Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IRS (Indian Remote Sensing) / Cartosat / ResourceSat / RISAT | Earth Observation, Remote Sensing | Mapping, surveillance, resource monitoring |
| INSAT (Indian National Satellite System) / GSAT | Communication, Meteorology, Navigation | Television broadcasting, telecommunications, defence communication, weather forecasting |
| IRNSS / NavIC | Navigation | Regional satellite navigation system |
| EMISAT | Electromagnetic Spectrum Measurement | Electronic intelligence |
Additional Information: ISRO's Role in Defence
ISRO plays a crucial role in supporting India's defence capabilities through various types of satellites:
- Communication Satellites: Like GSAT-7 and GSAT-7A, providing secure and robust communication links for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Earth Observation Satellites: Like the Cartosat series and RISAT (Radar Imaging Satellite) series, providing high-resolution imagery for surveillance, mapping, and strategic planning.
- Navigation Satellites: The NavIC system provides accurate positioning and timing information, which is vital for defence operations.
These satellites enhance situational awareness, improve command and control, and enable network-centric operations for the Indian armed forces.
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