The Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully demonstrated its capability to eliminate high-altitude surveillance balloons, similar to the one downed by a US F-22 Raptor in early 2023. This achievement places India among a select group of nations with the capacity to counter such threats.
Sources reveal that a few months ago, an IAF Rafale fighter jet neutralized a balloon target over the Eastern Air Command's area of responsibility. The balloon, smaller than the one downed by the US, was carrying a payload and flying at an altitude exceeding 55,000 feet. An "inventory missile" was successfully used to destroy the target.
This operation comes in the wake of increased concern over the use of such balloons for surveillance. In early 2023, the US Air Force shot down a Chinese spy balloon that had traversed across North America, sparking a diplomatic row and highlighting the vulnerability to this form of intelligence gathering. Following this incident, at least two other balloons were detected within a week.
India, too, reportedly observed a similar balloon over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands around the same time. However, no action was taken then, and the balloon eventually drifted away. These balloons are suspected to possess steering mechanisms enabling them to hover over specific areas for prolonged surveillance.
The IAF has been actively preparing for this type of threat. Last year, discussions were held with the US Air Force on countering high-altitude balloons. This recent successful operation confirms that the IAF has developed the necessary standard operating procedures and possesses the technology to effectively neutralize such targets.
This development significantly enhances India's defence capabilities, particularly along its eastern borders. The IAF's successful demonstration sends a clear message about its preparedness to address evolving security challenges and safeguard national interests.
