December 6, 2024: India has heightened its surveillance along the Bangladesh border following reports that Dhaka has deployed Turkish-made drones in proximity to West Bengal. According to sources speaking to media, the deployment of Bayraktar TB2 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by the Bangladesh Army has raised concerns, particularly in light of rising security threats along the border.

The Bayraktar TB2 drones, which have been in service with Bangladesh's 67th Army since earlier this year, are primarily used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Though Bangladesh has stated that the deployment is intended for defensive purposes, India is closely monitoring the situation due to the drones' strategic capabilities and the ongoing political instability in the region.

Intelligence reports have indicated that extremist groups, which were largely suppressed during the tenure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, may be regaining strength in areas near the Indian border. These groups, along with smuggling rings, are believed to be exploiting the current political turmoil in Bangladesh to infiltrate into India, raising alarms about possible cross-border activities.

The Bayraktar TB2 drones, which were purchased by Bangladesh earlier this year, have enhanced the country's surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Out of the 12 drones ordered, six are now operational, according to Defence Technology of Bangladesh (DTB). These drones are capable of conducting light strike operations in addition to surveillance tasks, which has prompted further scrutiny from Indian security agencies.

The Indian Army is actively assessing the new drone deployments, and the country's armed forces are on high alert. Sources confirm that India has bolstered its border patrols and surveillance efforts, with the potential for deploying advanced counter-drone systems, such as the Heron TP drones, to neutralize any emerging threats.

With tensions rising in the region, the security situation remains fluid, and both countries are closely monitoring developments along the sensitive border areas. India’s focus on maintaining vigilance is expected to intensify in the coming weeks as it prepares for any potential escalation arising from the deployment of these advanced UAVs.