Indian space program has a very different set of goals. - Develop indigenous technology, reduce dependency on technology transfers - Become a technology provi

Indian space program has a very different set of goals. - Develop indigenous technology, reduce dependency on technology transfers - Become a technology provider for defense, as in cheaply available satellites, as well as Research and Development for missiles, etc. - Get some market share in the international satellite launch market and make a bit of money. If you observe, Indian missile technology and Indian Space Research Organization, ISRO have grown together. In India, the Defense is not as advanced and gravitational as in the US, so the idea that the military will have 2 generations advanced tech is not true here (this is my guess) That is the reason we have missions to moon, mars and all, to develop expertise in technology and build strong institutions that become the bedrock for future endeavors.