Centre Deploys Anti-Drone Guns to Paramilitary Forces in Manipur After Rising Drone Attacks
In response to a growing wave of militant drone attacks in Manipur, the Indian government has authorized the use of anti-drone guns by paramilitary forces. This critical decision follows a significant incident on September 1st, where militants, suspected to be from the Kuki group, used sophisticated drones to carry out an attack on Border Security Force (BSF) personnel and Manipur Police in the Koutruk area of Imphal West. The attackers reportedly used the drones to drop RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades), a tactic not previously seen in the conflict-ridden state.
The deployment of anti-drone technology is part of the Centre's urgent measures to counter this novel threat. While such anti-drone systems have already been in use by the BSF along India’s western border with Pakistan, the recent attacks in Manipur mark the first time drones have been used in the region with such deadly precision. The Centre's quick response aims to prevent the situation from escalating further.
The BSF, Assam Rifles, and other paramilitary units stationed in Manipur will be the first to receive these anti-drone guns, which are specifically designed to jam drone signals and disable them mid-flight. These guns have proven effective in countering threats from drones carrying explosives, reconnaissance equipment, or smuggling contraband across sensitive areas. According to officials, these anti-drone guns can neutralize targets within a range of up to 1-2 kilometers, depending on the terrain and the type of drone being targeted. In Manipur, the initial deployment will focus on key locations prone to militant activities, creating a layered security net.
Experts believe this technological shift by militants signals a dangerous new chapter in Manipur's conflict, as the use of drones for dropping explosives is more commonly seen in conventional warfare. In recent years, non-state actors have increasingly employed drones in regions like Syria, Ukraine, and Iraq, where drones have been repurposed as inexpensive, effective tools for delivering bombs or conducting surveillance. The fact that such tactics are now being utilized in Manipur underscores the escalating complexity of the insurgency.
The Assam Rifles, known for its expertise in counter-insurgency operations in the northeastern region, has been specifically instructed to begin deploying its anti-drone guns in vulnerable zones. Meanwhile, the state government has been directed to accelerate the procurement of additional units. This effort will involve deploying the technology in a way that maximizes coverage, including the creation of “drone-free zones” around key security installations and civilian areas.
Manipur Police have emphasized the highly technical nature of these attacks, which require significant expertise to operate the drones and deploy explosives accurately. In their statement, the police assured the public that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have the capability to respond to future incidents. The state government has also called for more training and readiness among security personnel to handle this emerging threat.
The Centre’s decision to arm forces in Manipur with anti-drone technology is seen as a significant step in adapting to the evolving tactics of militants. With drones now being used as offensive weapons, ensuring the safety of both security forces and civilians has become an urgent priority. As the situation develops, experts anticipate further upgrades in the region’s counter-drone defenses to match the increasing sophistication of militant strategies.
This swift action by the Centre highlights the growing importance of drone warfare in internal security matters and the need for cutting-edge technology to defend against these new-age threats.
