J&K Police to procure advanced surveillance drones for anti-terror ops

Srinagar, Aug 25: In a significant move to strengthen counter-insurgency and anti-terrorist operations, the Jammu & Kashmir Police is planning to procure advanced Surveillance Drones, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (V2) equipped with modern ground control software and payload operation systems, designed as per specifications laid down by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).According to the tender notice floated under bid number 6489221-B-2025, the drones will comply with the latest version of the Drone Rules notified by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and will carry a valid “Type Certificate.” The procurement is being overseen by the Superintendent of Police, In-charge Police Central Store, Armed Police Complex, Zewan, Srinagar.Officials said the drones under consideration fall into different categories defined in the Drone Rules 2021, ranging from nano and micro-UAVs to small and medium unmanned aerial systems, depending on their maximum all-up weight and operational capacity.The document specifies performance categories such as endurance ranging from 15 to over 300 minutes, and weight classes stretching from handheld UAVs of 100 grams to advanced models weighing up to 500 kilograms or more.“These systems will provide a technological edge in surveillance, reconnaissance, and real-time intelligence sharing, which is critical in counter-terrorism operations across the difficult terrains of Jammu and Kashmir,” a senior police officer told Rising Kashmir.The plan emphasised strengthening police infrastructure with modern technology, weaponry, communication systems, and enhanced mobility.The police official further said the procurement process is aligned with the technical specifications finalised by the Directorate General of National Security Guard (NSG) in 2018 and approved by the Ministry of Home Affairs.“Once inducted, the drones are expected to significantly improve the operational capabilities of police units engaged in surveillance, anti-infiltration, and law-and-order duties in high-risk zones,” he said.The official said that this initiative will not only help in the close monitoring of hostile zones but also assist in search and rescue operations, disaster management, and securing public gatherings.Another official said that surveillance drones give police real-time aerial monitoring during anti-terror and counter-insurgency operations, reducing risk to personnel. They strengthen border security by detecting infiltration and suspicious movement, even in low light with thermal cameras, he said.“They also play a key role in disaster response, helping locate stranded people and guide rescue teams. With long flight endurance and advanced control systems, these UAVs provide police a vital edge in surveillance and rapid response,” the official added.Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir Government had constituted a six-member Union Territory-level Empowered Committee headed by the Additional Chief Secretary (Home) to deliberate on the police modernisation plan under the scheme Assistance to States and UTs for Police Modernisation.