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Syllabus: GS 3> Security > Internal Security
REFERENCE NEWS:
A suspected drone strike recently targeted a merchant ship off the Gujarat coast in the Arabian Sea. The incident involved the MV Chem Pluto, a Liberia-flagged tanker en route to India from the UAE. The vessel was attacked approximately 200 km southwest of Veraval, causing a fire onboard, which was later extinguished by the crew without any casualties.
WHAT IS UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (UAV) OR DRONES?
Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is an aircraft that flies without a human pilot aboard. These are commonly known as Drone, and are controlled by a ground-based controller through a system of Communications between the UAV and the ground station.
These can operate with different levels of autonomy either being remotely controlled by a human operator or autonomously by onboard computers.
APPLICATIONS OF DRONES:
HOW DRONES POSE A CHALLENGE TO INDIA'S NATIONAL SECURITY
Drone as a Weapon:
The potential of drones as weapons was highlighted when two low-flying drones carried improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to the Air Force Station in Jammu in 2021.
Cross-border supply of illicit arms and ammunition:
India's security is challenged by the cross-border supply of illegal weapons via drones, often linked to state support from Pakistan.
For instance, in 2023, the Border Security Force (BSF) reported shooting down 100 Pakistani drones used for smuggling arms and narcotics into India.
Facilitating espionage and terrorist activities:
Drones with high-resolution cameras and sensors are increasingly used for covert surveillance in sensitive areas, posing national security risks. Since August 2019, there have been over 150 drone sightings, mostly along the Pakistan border, highlighting the threat.
Cross-border drug trafficking:
In Punjab, cross-border drug trafficking via drones poses a serious challenge. These drones smuggle narcotics, destabilizing regions and impacting youth, leading to significant security and socio-economic issues.
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For instance, in an attempt to stop the smuggling of drugs from Pakistan through Pathankot in drones, the Punjab Police has rolled out a drone emergency response system.
Drone-enabled Cyberattacks:
Drones can be used for cyberattacks, targeting critical infrastructure and networks, leading to data theft and service disruption. They can launch malware or wireless attacks, posing significant risks.
For instance, in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, drones have been pivotal in cyber warfare, used for intelligence, bypassing security, jamming signals, and delivering malware, marking a significant development in “hybrid warfare”.?
Airspace Violations and Intrusions:
Unauthorized drones can breach restricted airspace, threatening sensitive installations, and interfering with commercial aviation, raising safety and security concerns.
An example includes the IAF deploying Su-30MKI jets to intercept Chinese drones near the LAC in Arunachal Pradesh, amid rising tensions with China??.
Also, there had been few episodes of unidentified flying objects disrupting operations at the Delhi airport.
INITIATIVES FOR DRONE REGULATION AND DEFENCE CAPABILITIES AGAINST UNMANNED AERIAL THREATS:
Drone Rules 2021:
India's Drone Rules 2021 are designed to balance drone utilization with national security and public safety. Key aspects of these regulations with a focus on security include:
Green, Yellow, and Red Zones: Drones are allowed to operate in green zones without permission, but yellow and red zones, especially near airports and sensitive areas, have restrictions to ensure airspace security.
Registration and Identification: Mandatory drone registration on the Digital Sky platform to monitor and track drone activities for security enhancement.
No Permission – No Takeoff (NPNT): Feature to restrict unauthorized drone flights in sensitive zones.
Remote Pilot Training: DGCA-certified training for drone pilots to uphold operational standards and security protocols.
Import Controls: Regulation of drone imports by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade to ensure compliance with safety and security standards.
Defence capabilities against unmanned aerial threats:
The DRDO has developed an anti-drone technology capable of detecting, intercepting, and shooting down drones. This technology is currently being transferred to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and other companies for mass production.
The Indian Armed Forces have awarded contracts worth over Rs 300 crore to Indian companies for made-in-India counter-drone systems, known as Counter Unarmed Aircraft Systems (CUAS).
The Indian Navy has procured the Naval Anti Drone System (NADS), the first indigenously developed anti-drone system to be inducted into the Indian Armed Forces.
Hyderabad-based Grene Robotics has developed a pioneering AI-empowered anti-drone system named "Indrajaal."
WAY FORWARD:
Counter-Drone Strategy:
A comprehensive counter-drone strategy is crucial, considering the variety of scenarios and stakes at risk, and the need for suitable solutions tailored to different contexts and scales??.
Enhanced Detection and Monitoring:
Invest in advanced radar and other sensor technologies to improve the detection of drones, especially smaller ones that can evade conventional radar systems.
Integrated Anti-Drone Systems:
Continue developing and deploying comprehensive anti-drone solutions, like the DRDO's Anti-Drone System. These systems should include both 'soft kill' (jamming, spoofing) and 'hard kill' (physical interception) capabilities.
Regulatory Framework Strengthening:
Regularly update and enforce drone regulations to address evolving threats..
International Collaboration:
Collaborate with other countries facing similar challenges to share knowledge, technology, and best practices in drone defense systems.
Research and Development:
Invest in R&D for advanced counter-drone technologies, including AI and machine learning-based solutions for threat identification and neutralization.
Defence-Drone Space:
There is a need for more local investment in defence-drone startups, research, and development.
Training and Awareness Programs:
Conduct regular training for military and law enforcement personnel in counter-drone operations. Additionally, public awareness campaigns about the responsible use of drones can help mitigate risks.
Geo-fencing Technology:
Implement geo-fencing to automatically prevent drones from entering restricted airspace.
Q. "Though the proliferation of unmanned aerial technology or drones provides opportunities, it poses serious threats to the national security of India." Discuss. (10 marks, 150 words)
