Current Affairs - International - Discussion

India and France have formalized the development and launch of a unique constellation of around 10 low-earth orbit satellites. It will continuously provide maritime surveillance and security. The satellite-based Automatic Identification System (AIS) will detect, identify and track a range of vessels moving in the Indian ocean region and guard against aggression, terrorism, piracy, smuggling, source of oil slicks and also be useful for rescues. The constellation carrying telecommunications (AIS) and radar and optical remote-sensing instruments will constitute the first space-based system in the world capable of tracking ships continuously.