SOURCE: AFI
In response to the recent strategic moves by Bangladesh, India has positioned its unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in West Bengal, close to the Bangladesh border. This deployment comes in the wake of Bangladesh deploying the Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 UAVs in the same region, highlighting a new phase in border surveillance and security dynamics between the two nations.
Bangladesh has recently operationalized its acquisition of the Bayraktar TB2 drones, known for their effectiveness in both surveillance and light-strike capabilities. These drones have been deployed near the West Bengal border, an area of strategic importance due to its proximity to the sensitive “chicken neck” corridor, which connects India’s northeast with the rest of the country.
In response, India has escalated its own surveillance measures by deploying UAVs, likely including models like the Heron TP or other indigenous drones. This move is aimed at countering the potential threat or intelligence-gathering capabilities that the TB2 drones might bring to the border region.
The presence of advanced UAVs on both sides of the border signifies heightened surveillance activities. For India, this means better monitoring of border activities, including possible infiltration or smuggling, which are common concerns in this area.
The deployment of UAVs by India can also be seen as a strategic signal to Bangladesh and other regional players, demonstrating India’s readiness and capability to respond to any perceived security challenges. While both countries have not publicly escalated their rhetoric, such military maneuvers could either lead to increased tensions or prompt diplomatic engagements to discuss mutual security concerns.
India’s armed forces, particularly the Border Security Force (BSF), are likely to intensify counter-drone operations. This could involve deploying anti-drone systems, enhancing radar capabilities, or even using their drones for offensive countermeasures.