India is on alert as Bangladesh stations Turkish drones close to the border: sources
Information about the positioning of Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) close to the India-Bangladesh border is reportedly being carefully analyzed by the Indian Army. Bangladesh recently purchased these UAVs.
In a Word
Development follows a rise in terrorist activities along the border.
Bangladesh deploys Bayraktar TB2 drones near West Bengal.
India increases vigilance, considers counter-drone measures.
India has ramped up surveillance along its border with Bangladesh following reports of Turkish-made drones stationed near West Bengal.
Sources informed India Today that this move coincides with intelligence reports of heightened terrorist activity in the region, particularly after the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government.
According to sources, the Indian Army is investigating reports of Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) deployed by Bangladesh’s 67th Army for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
Bangladesh claims the drones are for defensive purposes, but their presence in this geopolitically sensitive area has raised concerns in India.
Rise in Extremist Activity
Intelligence inputs indicate a resurgence of extremist groups and smuggling networks along the border, taking advantage of Bangladesh’s political instability.
These elements, suppressed during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, are reportedly re-establishing operations near the Indian border.
“Since Hasina’s government fell, anti-India activities along the border have surged. The combination of political turmoil and advanced UAV deployments demands greater vigilance,” a senior intelligence officer stated.
Drones from Bayraktar and Their Strategic Consequences
Six of the twelve Bayraktar TB2 drones that Bangladesh purchased earlier this year are currently in service. “These UAVs improve its light-strike and surveillance capabilities,” the Defense Technology of Bangladesh (DTB) said.
India’s Repercussions
The Indian military is assessing the latest drone deployments and is on high alert.
Deploying Heron TP drones and conducting counter-drone operations in strategic locations are examples of potential countermeasures.
A senior defense official stated, “We are keeping a close eye on developments and will take the necessary actions to ensure border security.” In order to be informed about the situation in Bangladesh, India is also making use of international intelligence-sharing agreements.