The Electronics City Industries Association has found a suitable anti-drone system that could be deployed. But the final decision to deploy such a system rests with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Published Jul 20, 2024 | 10:00 AM ⚊ Updated Jul 20, 2024 | 10:00 AM
Warning boards have been installed across the zone, emphasising the need for permission to operate drones. However, the security personnel lack specific systems to counter airborne threats. (Wikimedia Commons)
The heart of Bengaluru’s IT hub, Electronics City, a massive area known for its technological advancements, is looking to ramp up security measures to counter potential drone/UAV threats.
The area, spread over 900 acres, hosts about 200 IT and ITeS firms, including behemoths such as Infosys, TCS, Tech Mahindra, Tata Advanced Systems, Wipro, and many more.
Declared a no-drone/UAV zone three years ago due to security concerns, Electronics City has for some time now, a dedicated Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) unit comprising 80+ personnel, empowered to address any violations including UAV/drone-related.
The CISF can take decisive actions against unauthorised drones/UAVs, including shooting them down if necessary. To accommodate those seeking to use drones for events and functions, special permissions can be obtained, and the authorities concerned, including the police and CISF, are duly notified.
A representative from the Electronics City Industries Association (ELCIA) dealing with security matters told South First that they have made efforts to find suitable anti-drone systems and also found one that could be deployed.
But since no solution has been approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), nothing has moved forward.
Furthermore, even their discussions with the police revealed that no approved solution is currently deployable. As of today, ELCIA has gathered information on various existing solutions, complete with costing, and forwarded them to the CISF headquarters for evaluation. However, the final decision rests with the MHA.
“We want to deploy an effective anti-drone system. Groundwork has been completed, and we have estimated the cost to be in the range of ₹5-10 crore for our township, covering both soft and hard kill options. This proposal was submitted a year ago, but we are still awaiting approval from higher authorities in the MHA,” the ELCIA representative said.
Although no legal action has been initiated against drone violators so far, the area remains vigilant.
“Violators can take the garb of innocent operators, but we cannot rule out any potential threats,” the official added. Warning boards have been installed across the zone, emphasising the need for permission to operate drones.
The importance of robust anti-drone measures is underscored by the vulnerability of the area to technological threats. “Technologically, (drone attacks) is a highly possible threat, it is more probable than ground attacks. Anyone with a bit of technical know-how could carry it out,” the official warned.
As the IT hub continues to thrive, ensuring the safety and security of its residents and infrastructure remains a top priority.
Former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Late General Bipin Rawat had said “India has to start preparing for the future generation of warfare,” after a drone dropped two bombs at Indian Air Force (IAF) station in Jammu, the first-of-its-kind attack on Indian soil.
He also added that drones, swarms, and other such elements change the nature and character of warfare.
Today, conventional methods of interception such as firearms are good for traditional threats but not for UAVs. They are lightweight and have better speed, range, and autonomy which will complicate interception.
Hence the need for anti-drone systems that can either jam signals or shoot down unauthorised UAVs.
(Edited by Majnu Babu)
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