Drone War Escalates: Jammu, Srinagar Airports Targeted in 24 Hours
Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated sharply over the past 24 hours as two key Indian airports — Jammu and Srinagar — came under aerial assault. On Thursday night, a wave of approximately 300–400 drones was launched by Pakistan across the western sector, attempting to strike both military and civilian infrastructure deep inside Indian territory.
According to officials, the drone swarm aimed at disrupting strategic installations, with drones sighted in Jammu, Bathinda, Ferozpur, and as far south as Bhuj. Indian Air Defence units responded with precision, shooting down the majority of the drones using ground-based anti-air systems. In several cases, jamming technology was successfully employed to force hostile UAVs to return to Pakistani airspace or crash.
India Retaliates with Precision Strikes
In a swift and calculated retaliation, India launched strikes on four Pakistani air defence facilities believed to have coordinated the drone swarm. These counter-strikes reportedly inflicted significant damage. Simultaneously, heavy artillery shelling took place along the Line of Control and International Border, leading to casualties on both sides.
The drone threat did not end with the initial wave. On Friday, additional sightings were reported at 26 sensitive locations across northern and western India, including Barmer, Pathankot, and crucially, Srinagar airport. Armed drones injured several civilians in Ferozpur, while one UAV targeted the Bathinda military base but was successfully neutralised before impact.
Indian Air Defence Remains on High Alert
India’s response to the drone incursions showcased a high degree of readiness. Most incoming threats were neutralised before they could inflict substantial damage. Ground control teams used radar-guided anti-aircraft systems, electronic warfare tools, and coordinated aerial surveillance to track and destroy enemy drones mid-air.
The targeting of two key airports within a 24-hour window, coupled with the use of explosive-laden UAVs, marks a significant escalation in cross-border hostilities. The deliberate targeting of civilian zones, including active airfields, has raised serious concerns within security establishments and international observers alike.
India continues to assess the situation while maintaining high alert status along its borders and key strategic hubs.
