'Space power' India: What Modi's speech means for polls, national security

Prime Minister Modi, in surprise televised speech, announces announced India now has the capability to target satellites.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India had joined the US, Russia and China in an elite group of nations that have the capability to target satellites.

In a televised address to the nation, Modi said India has shot down a low Earth orbit satellite, noting the capability was crucial for national security.

"India has today established its name as a space power," Modi said. "Our scientists used an anti-satellite missile to bring down a live satellite, 300 kilometers away in space."

India’s current range of missiles are mostly intended for confrontation with neighboruing rivals China and Pakistan. India has fought