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India has strategically positioned its advanced S-400 air defence missile system in the vicinity of the Siliguri Corridor, a critical and narrow land passage often referred to as the "Chicken's Neck".
This deployment serves as a measure against increased aerial operations observed from both Bangladesh and China near this geographically vital area, which connects mainland India with its northeastern states. The move highlights growing security concerns surrounding the corridor's integrity.
The decision comes amidst a noticeable shift in regional dynamics. Following the change in government in Bangladesh in August 2024, which saw the departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, relations between New Delhi and Dhaka have cooled. India has expressed concerns regarding the current interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus.
Compounding these tensions, Bangladesh recently activated Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones near its borders with West Bengal and Meghalaya, locations adjacent to the sensitive Siliguri Corridor. These drones were procured by Bangladesh as part of its military modernization efforts.
Reports indicate that Bangladesh's 67th Army is utilising these medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance purposes.
The Bayraktar TB2 is noted for its operational effectiveness, demonstrated in various international conflicts, and possesses the ability to carry guided weapons, fly for over 24 hours, and operate within a radius of about 300 kilometres.
The stationing of such UAVs near the Chicken’s Neck, which measures only 22 kilometres across at its narrowest point, has raised alarms within India's defence establishment regarding potential security risks to this crucial transit route.
While Bangladesh maintains that the deployment of TB2 drones is for defensive surveillance, their presence in such a strategic location has caused apprehension in India.
Furthermore, intelligence sources have noted concerns about the potential resurgence of extremist elements and illegal smuggling activities possibly taking advantage of the political situation in Bangladesh, adding another layer of complexity to border security management.
In parallel, China has reportedly increased its use of surveillance aircraft near India's northern frontiers, particularly in areas close to Sikkim. Observations suggest expanded operations involving High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) drones by Beijing.
These sophisticated UAVs can operate at very high altitudes (above 50,000 feet) for extended periods, conducting surveillance over vast distances, leading to Indian concerns about monitoring activities along the contested Himalayan border.
This increased Chinese aerial presence is viewed by observers as part of Beijing's wider strategic objectives, potentially linked to initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
China's growing engagement with Bangladesh under the current administration is also seen by India as impacting regional dynamics and potentially challenging India's influence, particularly along its borders and in the broader Indo-Pacific region.
In response to these developments, India has deployed the S-400 'Triumph' air defence system. Acquired from Russia, this sophisticated system is designed to detect, track, and neutralise a variety of aerial threats including aircraft, UAVs, and missiles at distances extending up to 400 kilometres.
Its placement near the Siliguri Corridor, possibly centred around the Bagdogra Air Force Station in West Bengal, establishes a strong defensive shield against air incursions from multiple directions.
The S-400 system's sophisticated radar and missile technology provides a significant deterrent capability. It is equipped to handle stealthy targets such as the TB2 drones operated by Bangladesh and poses a challenge to high-altitude platforms like China's HALE UAVs, reinforcing India's ability to control the airspace in this critical zone.
This deployment enhances India's existing multi-layered defence posture in the region, which already includes assets like Rafale fighter jets and BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles positioned to protect the Siliguri Corridor.
The Siliguri Corridor remains a paramount concern in India's national security planning due to its strategic location and inherent vulnerability. Any disruption in this narrow passage could isolate India's northeastern region.
The installation of the S-400 system underscores India's commitment to safeguarding this vital land bridge and signals its readiness to counter potential aerial threats from neighbouring countries.
