Nagaraj Kattaian
Senior Program Manager / Operations Lead
Bengaluru,KA
Summary
Strategic Leader and Space Systems Expert with over 18 years of experience in the Indian Air Force and Defence Space Agency. Founding member of India’s premier space agency with a proven track record in program management, satellite communications, and international space diplomacy. Expert in orchestrating complex technical operations, leading cross-functional teams, and implementing national-level strategic architectures. Transitioning to corporate leadership to leverage expertise in operations management, technology integration, and large-scale project execution.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Joint Director (Space Info & Analysis)
Defence Space Agency
04.2022 - Current
- Spearheaded the strategic transition of the DSA’s operational vertical from Bengaluru to New Delhi, ensuring zero downtime in critical operations.
- Established the National Space Operations Center, overseeing day-to-day activities, and defining standard operating procedures (SOPs) for space monitoring.
- Represented India as the first military officer in the French Space Exercise (AsterX-2025), enhancing international cooperation in space security.
- Manage a portfolio of high-tech projects under the iDEX framework, fostering innovation by bridging the gap between start-ups and military requirements.
- Serving as a key technical advisor in national and international joint working groups and expert committee for SSA and capability development.
Founding Team Member
Defence Space Agency
08.2019 - 04.2022
- Orchestrated the initial setup of all DSA verticals, including workflow architecture, infrastructure development, and workforce planning for specialized technical roles.
- Drafted the National Space Situational Awareness Architecture, a landmark study to protect Indian space assets.
- Initiated bilateral space diplomacy efforts, participating in the inaugural U.S.-India Defense Space Dialogue to align strategic interests.
- Formulated long-term capability development plans to meet the tri-service military space objectives for the Indian Armed Forces.
Joint Director Operations (Space)
Indian Air Force
05.2016 - 08.2019
- Directed the project lifecycle for the launch of the GSAT-7A satellite, significantly enhancing the IAF’s SATCOM capabilities.
- Collaborated with ISRO for the design and development of GSAT-7C and NAVIC constellations, ensuring military-grade specifications were met.
- Optimized satellite bandwidth allocation for pan-India IAF applications, improving network efficiency by 99.9 %.
- Led the successful testing and integration of Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) terminals for airborne platforms.
Senior Engineer (Electronics)
Indian Air Force
04.2014 - 07.2015
- Directed a cross-functional team of 150 technicians during 'Op Megh Rahat,' providing critical technical support for one of India's largest disaster relief operations.
- Monitored technical employee performance to keep projects on task and equipment operational round the clock.
- Determined the root cause of airfield equipment failure and implemented innovative solutions through thorough analysis.
- Led a cross-functional team for the successful completion of multiple large-scale projects, ensuring the timely delivery of operational assets at the Srinagar airfield.
Senior Production Engineer (Electronics)
Indian Air Force
01.2010 - 03.2014
- Managed an RF test equipment and calibration laboratory, ensuring 100% serviceability of critical airfield and aircraft electronic systems.
Field Engineer
Indian Air Force
07.2006 - 12.2009
- Maintained and overhauled high-precision French Air Defense Radar systems, ensuring 24/7 operational readiness in a frontline environment.
Education
PG Dip - Satellite Communications
United Nations (CSSTEAP)
Ahmedabad, India04.2016
Bachelor of Engineering - Electronics And Communications
Vellore Institute of Technology
Vellore05.2003
Skills
Ansys - Systems Tool Kit
Diversity and inclusion
Mentoring and coaching
Innovation management
Websites
Accomplishments
- CISC Commendation (2022): Recognized for exceptional service at the Defence Space Agency.
- AOC-in-C WAC Commendation (2008): Cited for dedicated efforts during Operation Gagan Shakti.
Timeline
Joint Director (Space Info & Analysis)
Defence Space Agency
04.2022 - Current
Founding Team Member
Defence Space Agency
08.2019 - 04.2022
Joint Director Operations (Space)
Indian Air Force
05.2016 - 08.2019
Senior Engineer (Electronics)
Indian Air Force
04.2014 - 07.2015
Senior Production Engineer (Electronics)
Indian Air Force
01.2010 - 03.2014
Field Engineer
Indian Air Force
07.2006 - 12.2009
Bachelor of Engineering - Electronics And Communications
Vellore Institute of Technology
PG Dip - Satellite Communications
United Nations (CSSTEAP)