SOURCE: AFI
India has recently intensified its countermeasures against the increasing threat of drone incursions from Pakistan by deploying GPS jamming technology along the Punjab border. This strategic move aims to disrupt the navigational systems of drones used by Pakistani smugglers to transport contraband, including narcotics and small arms, into Indian territory.
The deployment of GPS jamming systems is particularly focused along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab, with significant activity noted around major urban centers like Amritsar and extending to nearby regions such as Pathankot. According to data provided by DFI Lite, an X user, the level of GPS interference in this area has been ranked above 10%, which indicates a very high level of jamming activity.
This level of jamming is designed to throw off the precise navigation capabilities of drones, which rely on GPS for accurate flight paths and delivery of their payloads. By disrupting the GPS signals, these drones can either be forced to return to their point of origin, crash, or land prematurely, thereby thwarting smuggling attempts. The effectiveness of this measure has been substantiated by reports indicating a sharp decline in successful drone missions, with many drones now being intercepted or failing to reach their intended targets.
The Indian security forces have been combating this issue for years, with the Border Security Force (BSF) at the forefront. The use of drones for smuggling has become a significant concern, not only for the direct threat they pose but also for their potential use in more sinister activities, such as terrorist operations. The BSF has previously reported a substantial increase in drone sightings, with hundreds noted annually, leading to the recovery of drugs, arms, and even explosives.
The deployment of anti-drone technologies, including GPS jammers, comes after several successful operations where drones were shot down or their flights disrupted. This strategy has been part of a broader initiative to enhance border security through both kinetic and non-kinetic means, including the deployment of anti-drone weapons, detection systems like radars, and jammers.
However, while this technology provides a significant advantage in countering drone threats, it also poses challenges. High levels of GPS jamming can potentially interfere with civilian uses of GPS in the area, affecting navigation for vehicles, aviation, and personal devices. Hence, the Indian authorities are likely employing sophisticated, targeted jamming technology that minimizes civilian impact while maximizing security benefits.