The India-Pakistan border is witnessing a new type of warfare: drones. The Border Security Force (BSF) reports a surge in drone activity, with 97 drones seized in the first half of 2024 alone. This alarming trend has raised concerns within Indian intelligence agencies, who believe that Pakistan is actively facilitating these drone-based smuggling operations of drugs and weapons.
While traditional land-based threats remain a concern, the BSF now faces a greater challenge from the air. Fencing and constant surveillance by soldiers have helped secure the land border, but the use of drones has introduced a new level of complexity to border security.
Intelligence reports indicate that numerous drones are being used to transport illicit goods across the border, including weapons and drugs. This surge in activity is attributed to the increased difficulty faced by terrorist groups in infiltrating India through traditional means.
Security experts warn that drones could also be used for reconnaissance missions against Indian forces or even to carry out attacks. A 2021 incident, where a drone dropped explosives on the Jammu Air Force station, highlights the potential danger posed by these unmanned aerial vehicles.
The BSF is actively combating the drone threat through technological means. By analyzing chips from seized drones, they have been able to trace their origins and launch sites in Pakistan. Additionally, counter-drone systems, including jammers, have been deployed at strategic locations along the border.
Sources within the Central Security establishment suggest that a drone storage facility in Lahore, Pakistan, may be serving as a hub for these smuggling operations. The facility is suspected to be operated by the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist group, which is believed to be recruiting criminals to launch the drones. Experts point out that affordable Chinese-made drones are easily accessible to terrorist and criminal groups, enabling them to acquire these drones in large quantities.
Despite the challenges, the BSF's efforts have proven effective. Their increased vigilance and technological countermeasures have led to a significant increase in drone interceptions. The force is now able to neutralize these aerial threats more efficiently than ever before. During the winter season, fog often provides cover for increased drone activity from Pakistan. However, the BSF's deployment of drone-hunting teams and anti-drone systems has helped mitigate this advantage, ensuring continued border security.
This ongoing drone warfare highlights the evolving nature of threats along the India-Pakistan border and underscores the importance of continued vigilance and technological adaptation by security forces.
