Space Debt Diplomacy: How China’s Satellite Loans To Pakistan Encroach On Indian Orbital Slots

Abstract

This research paper explores the new aspects of ‘space debt diplomacy’ using the example of China-Pakistan satellite cooperation and what it means for India’s control over its orbits. Anchored in Offensive Realism and Dependency Theory, the research explains how China uses the loans of satellite technologies and filings at ITU for orbits to dominate the space infrastructure of South Asia. China’s Pakistan geostationary pay load offering of launch, geostationary space filing, and even powered aids through PakSat-MM1R and through dual use aids I Cube-Qamar give China sponsored challenge to India's geostationary domain. Pakistan reliance on China through asymmetric contracts and telemetry overlaps in the contracting for telemetry [1]defines asymmetry dominated cluster orbits. India’s space zones are strategically needed and Pakistan’s space autonomy. While these norms are voluntary and non-binding, the concerns of space governance have allowed too much maneuverability in the grey legal void. India counter space tries through Artemis alliance and grows domestically, still needs controlled ITU diplomacy. This paper enhances understanding of geopolitical rivalry related to space competition through proxy partnerships and infrastructural dependencies by mapping institutional capabilities, policy narratives, and strategic filings.