India Enhances Border Security with New BSF Drone Squadrons After Operation Sindoor

India is set to bolster its border security with the government's recent approval for the creation of specialized drone squadrons within the Border Security Force (BSF). These squadrons are intended to address cross-border threats, including enemy drones, and to conduct precision strikes as necessary.

This decision follows Operation Sindoor, a military engagement from May 7 to May 10, during which Pakistan deployed approximately 1,000 unmanned aerial vehicles targeting Indian military and civilian infrastructures.

Officials have disclosed that the new squadrons will be stationed at critical BSF border outposts along the 3,323-kilometer India-Pakistan frontier, extending from Gujarat to Jammu and Kashmir. The drone units will be outfitted with various UAVs for tasks such as surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision attacks, including kamikaze missions.

An official stated that BSF personnel with technical expertise are already undergoing training in drone operations. This training encompasses surveillance, precision and swarm drone attacks, engagement with enemy drones, radar blinding, and signal jamming. Each designated BOP is expected to have two to three trained operators, managed from a central command center in Chandigarh.

High-level government officials are in discussions with both international and domestic drone manufacturers to acquire appropriate platforms for these squadrons.

Following Operation Sindoor, the initiative has become a government priority, with assurances that there will be no financial limitations, according to another official.

During Operation Sindoor, the BSF was instrumental in neutralizing enemy drones and dismantling 118 Pakistani posts. This operation was a response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists and a pony handler.

The BSF currently oversees 687 border outposts, while the Indian Army is responsible for the Line of Control (LoC). Besides enhancing drone capabilities, the BSF will also focus on fortifying bunkers and structures near BOPs to safeguard personnel against cross-border attacks.

The introduction of these drone units is part of India's broader strategy to modernize its border defense systems and maintain a tactical advantage in the face of emerging threats.