Pakistan-backed terror groups, including Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Khalistani extremist outfits, have reportedly acquired aerial assets such as paragliders and related equipment, raising fresh concerns for India’s border security. The development comes days after multiple drone sightings were reported along the Line of Control (LoC), putting security agencies on high alert.

According to a News18 report, a detailed assessment has been prepared that documents the latest activities related to aerial threats. The report is aimed at helping authorities prepare comprehensive counter-measures involving multiple agencies and security forces. The focus is on strengthening responses to emerging threats posed by drones and other unconventional aerial platforms.

The concern intensified after suspected Pakistani drones were sighted along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district on Tuesday. Security officials said several drone-like objects were first noticed hovering over Dheri Dhara village near the Keri sector at around 7:35 pm. The objects were later seen moving towards Kalali village.

In response, security agencies immediately opened fire and activated counter-drone measures. Following this action, the aerial objects were observed retreating back across the border. Officials confirmed that monitoring and surveillance along the LoC have since been intensified to prevent any further incidents.

The report also highlights a broader global trend, noting that the use of drones to target world leaders and critical infrastructure is increasing. This shift reflects a changing pattern in asymmetric warfare and terrorist strategies, where unconventional and low-cost aerial tools are being used to bypass traditional security systems.

Within this context, experts have pointed to the use of motorised paragliders by Hamas during its attacks on Israel as a significant example. They noted that such unconventional tools can be used to evade established security measures and carry out large-scale attacks. This assessment has added to concerns that similar methods could be adopted by terror groups operating in the region.

On the same day as the drone sightings, an encounter broke out between security forces and suspected militants in the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said gunfire was reported after security forces launched a search operation based on specific intelligence inputs about militant movement in a remote village.

According to officials, intermittent firing was reported from the Najote forest area of Billawar. This area is located about 10 km from the Kamadh nallah in the Kahog forest belt, where a similar exchange of fire had taken place earlier on January 7. Security personnel came under fire after suspected militants opened fire upon noticing the advancing forces.

The security forces retaliated and continued moving deeper into the forest area. Authorities said the cordon-and-search operation has been further strengthened, and efforts are ongoing to track and neutralise the militants believed to be hiding in the region.

Meanwhile, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi addressed the issue of recent UAV sightings along the border. He said India has conveyed a clear warning to Pakistan regarding such activities. Describing the incidents, the Army Chief stated that such UAV activity was “not acceptable.”

Officials reiterated that India remains vigilant and is closely monitoring developments along the border. Security agencies continue to assess emerging threats and are coordinating closely to ensure preparedness against any aerial or ground-based infiltration attempts.