VENU G S, KOLLAM
The drone strikes at the Indian Air Force (IAF) base in Jammu and the subsequent sightings of drones close to military stations has set alarm bells ringing. Several army stations in this area have been targeted by Pakistan-sponsored terror in the past. In each case, evidence corroborated Pakistan’s involvement in the terror. Drone strikes indicate that terrorists have changed their modus operandi and advanced technology has been incorporated in their activities. By adopting drone-assisted terror attacks, the terrorists have dispensed with suicide attacks. This advanced strategy empowers the terrorists to carry out repeated attacks. These attacks show that the terrorists may exploit chinks in the armour to carry out attacks successfully. An advantage of drone attacks is that it enables Pakistan to deny its involvement, as there is lack of concrete evidence. Terrorist attacks show that it is difficult to protect each and every asset and vital point. On the other hand, India cannot afford to come under sustained terror attacks. Instead of being defensive like in the past, India must be on the offensive and bring prompt retaliation for the attacks. Once the enemy is identified, counter attacks must be carried out. Billions of dollars are spent to buy protection. This has proved to be unnecessary. Instead, India must adopt retaliatory measures that will make the enemy remain under threat. Carrying out of terror attacks using drones poses new threat to India. Drones could be used not just to attack airbases and military stations but also carry out attacks on military convoys and public gatherings. Attacks of this kind have serious consequences. India must realise the seriousness of the situation and be prepared for counter attacks. Drone attacks show a paradigm shift in terror attacks. To counter it, India must have the military resources like anti-drone systems. There must be facilities for detecting, tracking and destroying drones. There have been a lot of developments in the region recently. As the US troops are leaving Afghanistan, the Taliban may take over that country. This will allow Pakistan to get India out of that country. As the region is overrun with radical extremists, Pakistan will instigate more terrorist activities against India, as it will boost the morale of terrorists. Terrorism continues to be Pakistan’s state policy. The attack in Jammu is only a beginning. In such a situation, establishing peace with Pakistan is impossible.