The center warns of potential drone attacks on vital equipment

Image used for representational purposes only. | Photo credit: The Hindu

The Union government has warned of possible rogue drone attacks targeting vital installations along the borders, prompting security agencies to work on deploying anti-drone technology systems to protect critical assets across the country.

According to official sources, the Maritime Security Department of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has issued an alert against the emerging threat of drones at Vital Assets and Vital Installations (VAVI) located around the land and sea borders.

It was noted that the current geopolitical situation around the world has shown that enemy drones can disrupt the operation of critical VAVIs. “There is an urgent need to take concrete steps to protect our assets, especially those located near the borders, from rogue drones by installing anti-drone systems,” the statement said.

Rehearsals have begun

In view of the emerging threat, the Ministry of Home Affairs has constituted an Anti-Rogue Drone Technology Committee within the Border Security Force (BSF) to assess and certify anti-rogue drone technology systems for deployment in India. The force is in the process of installing anti-drone systems in Punjab along the Pakistan border, for which trials have already begun, sources said.

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) also formed a sub-committee board of officers comprising members of the Defense Development Organisation, Intelligence Bureau, Airports Authority of India, BSF and other stakeholders to conduct VAVI surveys.

The anti-drone systems would be proposed for installation at VAVI based on the committee’s threat assessment and survey report and with the approval of the Union Home Ministry, sources said.

First port in India

In February 2026, VO Chidambaranar Port Authority in Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu became the first port in the country to start implementing an advanced anti-drone system as part of measures to protect critical port infrastructure. The port signed an agreement with Central Electronics Limited, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, Ministry of Science and Technology.

The project involves the deployment of an integrated radio frequency and radar-based drone detection and jamming system, specially adapted for complex port environments, providing 360-degree coverage and omnidirectional direction. It was in line with April’s Kaal Vision 2047 and Maritime India Vision 2030, which aim to strengthen national security and maritime resilience by strengthening airspace surveillance.

Published – 15 June 2026 21:45 IST