Centre issues drone threat alert, begins anti-drone system rollout at key sites
MHA has formed a BSF-led panel to test tech for deployment, especially along the Punjab-Pakistan border. CISF, DRDO, IB, AAI and BSF are jointly assessing key installations. V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Tuticorin became India’s first port with an RF and radar-based anti-drone system in Feb 2026, supporting Maritime India Vision 2030
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): In view of the threat of potential drone attacks on the country's borders and strategic installations, the central government has directed security agencies to remain vigilant and immediately implement necessary security measures. The Maritime Security Cell of the Ministry of Shipping and Waterways has issued a special warning in this regard, emphasizing the need to strengthen security in border areas and vital assets.
The ministry's directive states that given the current global security situation, drone-based threats cannot be ignored. Such attacks could impact the operations of vital installations. Therefore, there is a need to install state-of-the-art anti-drone systems in border areas and sensitive locations. According to government sources, following the warning, various security agencies have begun reviewing security arrangements at vital installations across the country. Surveillance of drone activity is being increased, particularly in border areas.
In response, the Home Ministry has formed a special committee, led by the Border Security Force (BSF), to test and evaluate the most effective anti-drone technologies for the country. Sources say the testing process has already begun for deployment of these systems in sensitive areas, including Punjab along the Pakistan border.
Meanwhile, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has formed a joint expert team, comprising officers from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the Airports Authority of India (AAI), and the Border Security Force (BSF). The team is visiting various important installations to assess security requirements. Following the report and approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, appropriate anti-drone systems will be installed at the relevant locations.
Meanwhile, the V.O. Chidambaranar Port in Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu, has become the first port in the country to install an advanced anti-drone security system. The project, launched in February 2026, uses radio frequency and radar-based technology to identify suspicious drones and disable or jam them.
Officials say the system, equipped with 360-degree surveillance capabilities, has been developed keeping in mind the specific security needs of the port area. The government believes such measures will strengthen the country's air and maritime security, as well as accelerate the goals of the Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.