India has been placed on high alert following warnings of possible drone strikes against critical installations along both land and maritime borders. The central government has directed security agencies to tighten measures at sensitive locations, with anti-drone systems being deployed to safeguard strategic assets.
The Maritime Security Division of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has issued an alert highlighting the threat posed by hostile drones to essential facilities near India’s borders.
In its communication, the ministry stressed the urgent need to install counter-drone systems to protect bases and infrastructure, noting that the global security environment makes such threats increasingly likely.
In response, security agencies have begun installing anti-drone systems at key sites across the country. The Home Ministry has constituted a special committee under the Border Security Force to evaluate and approve the most effective systems for deployment.
Trials have already commenced in Punjab, particularly in areas bordering Pakistan, where incursions have previously been reported. The Central Industrial Security Force has also formed a dedicated team comprising officers from the Defence Research and Development Organisation, Intelligence Bureau, Airport Authority of India, and BSF.
This team is tasked with inspecting critical locations nationwide, and their findings will determine which systems are installed at specific sites after approval from the Home Ministry.
Tamil Nadu has become the first state to host an anti-drone system at a port facility. The North Cargo Berth-III at VO Chidambaram Port in Thoothukudi, constructed at a cost of ₹285 crore with an annual handling capacity of 6.96 million metric tons, adopted the technology in February 2026.
The system, developed in partnership with Central Electronics Limited, combines radio frequency and radar-based detection with jamming capabilities to disable hostile drones. It has been customised for the port environment to provide 360-degree surveillance and protection. This initiative aligns with the government’s Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 and Maritime India Vision 2030, both of which emphasise strengthening aerial and maritime security.
The urgency of these measures is underscored by the experience of Operation Sindoor in May 2025, when Pakistan attempted drone strikes against Indian targets. During the operation, the Indian Air Force successfully intercepted and destroyed multiple drones and fighter aircraft mid-air using radar and air defence systems.
The Sudarshan missile system was employed to neutralise a high-value aircraft at a distance of approximately 300 kilometres, while Rafale and Sukhoi-30MKI fighters struck Pakistani hangars housing Chinese-made Wing Loong drones. These actions demonstrated India’s ability to counter aerial threats but also highlighted the need for continuous upgrades to counter-drone capabilities.
The current deployment of anti-drone systems reflects India’s determination to prevent similar incursions and to secure vital infrastructure against evolving threats.
By combining indigenous technology with coordinated inter-agency efforts, the government aims to build a robust defensive shield against unmanned aerial systems. The integration of these systems at ports, airports, and border regions marks a significant step in enhancing national security preparedness.
Agencies
