Is India ready for drone terrorism? | Gravitas | World News | WION

Summary

In Manipur, India, a drone attack killed two and injured ten, marking the first use of drones in the region's ethnic violence. The incident, which involved at least seven drones, signifies a dangerous escalation, suggesting the involvement of highly trained professionals. With India's border security forces already confronting drone threats from Pakistan, this internal attack raises concerns about the country's anti-drone measures. The Indian military's adoption of laser-based drone detection systems may offer a solution, but the incident underscores the need for enhanced domestic security strategies.

Takeaways

• 🔥 A drone attack in Manipur resulted in two deaths and over 10 injuries, marking a new level of escalation in the region's conflict.
• 🚨 The use of drones to drop bombs is unprecedented in Manipur, which has been dealing with ethnic violence for over a year.
• 👮‍♂️ Among the injured were a journalist and two police personnel, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attack.
• 🤖 At least seven drones were reportedly used in the attack, indicating a coordinated and possibly well-planned operation.
• 🚫 The Manipur police have acknowledged the significant escalation, suggesting the involvement of highly trained professionals with technical expertise.
• 🛰️ In 2023, India's border security force shot down 125 drones from Pakistan, demonstrating a growing drone threat along the border.
• 💊 Drones have been used by Pakistan to smuggle drugs, arms, and fake currency into India, showing their utility in illicit activities.
• 🏞️ The Western border sees the use of DJI Mavic 3 Classic drones for smuggling heroin, opium, and light weapons.
• 🔍 The origin of the drones used in Manipur remains unknown, raising questions about the source and accessibility of such technology.
• 🛡️ India has developed laser-based integrated drone detection and interdiction systems (IDDIS) to counter drone threats, indicating a proactive approach to drone warfare.

Q & A

What recent event involving drones occurred in Manipur?

In Manipur, an attack took place in the Kruk Village where militants used drones to drop bombs, resulting in two deaths and at least ten injuries, including a journalist and two police personnel.

How many drones were reportedly used in the Manipur attack?

At least seven drones were reportedly used in the attack in Manipur.

What does this drone attack signify in terms of escalation in Manipur's conflict?

The drone attack in Manipur marks a significant escalation, indicating the involvement of highly trained professionals with technical expertise and support, which was previously not seen in the region's ethnic violence.

How has India's border security force responded to drone threats from Pakistan?

In 2023, India's border security force shot down 125 drones from Pakistan, which were often used to smuggle drugs, arms, and fake currency into India.

What are the common uses of drones along India's Western border?

DJI Mavic 3 Classic drones are commonly used along India's Western border to smuggle heroin, opium, and light weapons.

What is unknown about the drones used in the Manipur attack?

It is currently unknown what specific type of drones were used in the Manipur attack and where the militants obtained them from.

How easily accessible are drones in India despite the ban on Chinese imports?

Drones are easily accessible in India, either by ordering them online or purchasing them in person from stores, and Chinese-made drones are also available on the black market.

What is the potential risk if militants in India start using drones to fire RPGs?

The potential risk of militants using drones to fire RPGs is a frightening escalation that could lead to more significant damage and casualties, necessitating a rethink of anti-drone tactics in domestic security.

What technology has the Indian military inducted to counter drone threats?

The Indian military has inducted laser-based integrated drone detection and interdiction systems, known as ID Andis, designed by India's Defense Research and Development Organization and Par Electronics Limited.

What capabilities does the ID Andis system have?

The ID Andis system can detect, jam, and destroy enemy drones within a range of 5 to 8 km, primarily aimed at safeguarding India's LAC with China.

What measures might be taken to enhance security in conflict zones within India in light of the drone threat?

Security agencies may consider installing similar anti-drone systems as the ID Andis in conflict zones within India and increase aerial surveillance to counter the drone threat.