With its satellites practicing “dogfights” in orbit—a word taken from aviation combat to describe close-range, coordinated maneuvers between spacecraft—India has ushered in a new era of space technology. This complex exercise is a component of the SPADEX (Space Docking Experiment) project of the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), which intends to develop and demonstrate enhanced in-space rendezvous, docking, and undocking capabilities.
Similar to fighter jets in aerial battle, “dogfighting” describes the capacity of two or more satellites to independently execute complex maneuvers in close proximity to one another. At tremendous speeds—up to 28,800 km/h—these maneuvers involve approaching, circling, and precisely aligning with one another while upholding mission objectives and safety. These exercises, which are non-combative displays of technological capabilities, are crucial for future space operations like interplanetary trips, space station installation, and satellite maintenance.
In order to verify the autonomous docking and undocking of two tiny satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), in low-Earth orbit, at a height of roughly 470–500 kilometers, ISRO launched SPADEX, a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission. Each satellite has sophisticated guidance, navigation, and control systems, such as magnetometers, reaction wheels, thrusters, star and sun sensors, and weighs about 220 kg.
automated satellite rendezvous, docking, and undocking demonstration.
facilitating power transfer between docked spacecraft, which is essential for deep-space missions and future space stations.
Verifying composite spacecraft control systems and testing payload operations after undocking.
making India the fourth country to successfully dock a satellite in orbit, following the US, Russia, and China.
ISRO carried out a unique and sophisticated “dogfight” in orbit in 2025, in which the target and chaser satellites executed coordinated, close-range maneuvers on their own. This came after successful docking and undocking drills and previous manually controlled proximity procedures. Notably, ISRO accomplished two successful docking procedures. The second was completely autonomous from a 15-meter distance and featured a power transfer demonstration between the satellites.
Because of careful orbital control and effective mission planning, the satellites managed to save around half of their fuel after several docking and undocking operations. The mission life is prolonged and further tests are made possible by this operational efficiency.
India’s aspirations for the future depend heavily on the SPADEX mission and its “dogfight” exercises:
They set the stage for the proposed Bharatiya Antariksh Station (Indian Space Station) to be built and maintained.
They make it possible for complicated missions that need docking technology, like multi-launch deep space missions and lunar sample returns.
Given that other countries like China and the US are also developing comparable technology, India’s display of such sophisticated capabilities shows its increasing independence and technological maturity in the international space arena.
According to space specialist Brigadier Anshuman Narang (Retd), these accomplishments mark a significant advancement in the peaceful robotization and indigenization of space technology, which is consistent with the goal of a “Atmanirbhar” (self-reliant) India.
India’s ability to perform intricate, self-governing satellite maneuvers in orbit is demonstrated by its historic history of “dogfighting” in space. In addition to showcasing cutting-edge technological prowess, the SPADEX mission lays the groundwork for next strategic and scientific missions, solidifying India’s standing as a key participant in the quickly developing area of space exploration.
