In a dramatic development that has stirred national security discourse, American satellite imaging giant Maxar Technologies has terminated its partnership with Pakistani company Business Systems International Pvt Ltd (BSI) following explosive revelations linking satellite surveillance activity to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

The move comes after The Print’s investigative report unearthed that high-resolution satellite images of the Pahalgam region were being accessed frequently through Maxar’s platform in the months preceding the 22 April terrorist strike. Notably, an unusual surge in satellite imaging of the area was recorded in February 2025, raising eyebrows among intelligence circles.

BSI, which was registered as an official Maxar partner since June 2024, is owned by Obaidullah Syed, a U.S. indicted individual facing charges for unlawfully exporting sensitive computer systems and software to Pakistani government institutions. Though Maxar claims that BSI had not placed specific orders for Pahalgam imagery this year, its swift removal from the partner directory suggests a reactionary measure in light of the emerging controversy.

The timing has fueled speculation: Was this a coordinated intelligence lapse or a misuse of commercial satellite services for hostile reconnaissance? Experts warn that even commercial imagery, when in the wrong hands, can be weaponized for planning cross-border attacks.

The Indian security establishment is now pushing for greater scrutiny and transparency in the international satellite imagery domain. Authorities are investigating whether the accessed data could have aided the Pakistan backed militants who ambushed Indian tourists and security forces in the popular pilgrimage town.

As investigations deepen, Maxar’s internal compliance and vetting procedures are under the spotlight, and the incident is serving as a cautionary tale about the dual-use nature of space technologies where commercial innovation intersects with military risk.