![Steel Bullets, Shadowy Ambushes: New Terror Tactics Challenge Indian Army in Kashmir Steel Bullets, Shadowy Ambushes: New Terror Tactics Challenge Indian Army in Kashmir](https://i0.wp.com/www.financialexpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/1-167.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&ssl=1)
Indian Army intelligence sources have raised serious concerns about a worrying trend in terrorist attacks in the Kashmir region. Terrorists have adopted new tactics, employing steel-core bullets and well-coordinated "hit-and-run" strategies, leading to casualties among Indian security forces.
Steel-Core Bullets: A Deadly Upgrade
A key aspect of these attacks is the use of steel-core bullets. Unlike standard ammunition, these bullets are designed to penetrate armor, posing a grave threat to military vehicles and personnel, even at close range. This poses a significant challenge for the Indian Army, as traditional bulletproof protection may not be sufficient against this type of ammunition.Hit-and-Run Tactics: Precision and Evasion
The terrorists' strategy appears meticulously planned. Intelligence suggests they possess detailed knowledge of troop movements and strategically position themselves for ambushes. These attacks often involve firing from multiple directions, causing confusion and maximizing casualties before a swift escape into the dense forests, hindering the effectiveness of reinforcements.A Pattern of Escalation
This shift in tactics is part of a broader trend observed over the past year. Security forces have identified several incidents where similar methods were employed, resulting in casualties among Indian troops. These incidents include:- May 4, 2024: An Indian Air Force serviceman killed in an ambush at Surankote, Poonch.
- Dec 21, 2023: Four soldiers killed by terrorists in Surankote.
- Nov 22-23: Two officers among five killed in a Kalakote encounter.
- Sept 13: One soldier killed in an encounter in Rajouri’s Narla area.
- May 5: Five Army commandos killed in an IED blast in Rajouri’s Kandi.
- April 20: Five soldiers killed in an ambush at Bhatta Dhurian, Poonch.