Dhaka: Amid tensions with New Delhi, Bangladesh has now started a hazardous game against India. Bangladesh has deployed Bayraktar TB-2 drone purchased from Türkiye on the Indian border. This Turkish spy drone is now keeping an eye on the Indian border. After this step of Bangladesh,India has become alert and has increased surveillance on the border. India Today quoted sources as saying that the Army has confirmed reports of deployment of Bayraktar TB-2 drones near the border.
Bayraktar TB-2 is capable of attacking
Türkiye’s TB-2 drone is capable of spying as well as carrying out light attacks. These drones are operated by the Bangladesh Army for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. In such a situation, after this deployment of Bangladesh Army, there is a possibility of increasing the already ongoing tension. India has not ignored the strategic importance of deploying such advanced drones in sensitive areas. Along with this, india has also started preparations.
The deployment of these drones comes at a time when intelligence has indicated an increase in terrorist activities in the border areas. Intelligence has revealed that the extremists suppressed during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure are again gaining a foothold in the areas near the border. India Today, quoting an official, said in the report that after Hasina’s ouster, a surge in anti-India elements has been seen in the border areas.
Bangladesh has 6 TB-2 drones
Bangladesh’s Sheikh Hasina government had purchased TB-2 drones from Türkiye earlier this year. Bangladesh had signed a deal for 12 drones, out of which 6 have started operating.This has enhanced Bangladesh’s ability to conduct surveillance and light strikes.
india can respond with Israeli Heron drone
Indian security agencies are on alert regarding Bangladesh’s TB-2 drone deployment and are closely assessing the latest deployment.Simultaneously occurring, the indian Armed Forces are considering deploying drones like Heron TP purchased from Israel in response. Along with this, there is also an option to intensify anti-drone operations in sensitive areas.
India has heron drones purchased from Israel, which currently have a capacity of about 24 hours. This drone can send live video and pictures up to about 200-250 kilometers. However, with satellite connectivity they will have almost unlimited range of transmission. Apart from Heron, India also has MQ-9B drone acquired from America.
– How will Bangladesh’s deployment of Bayraktar TB-2 drones affect its relationship with India in the long term?
Interview: Implications of bangladesh’s Deployment of Bayraktar TB-2 Drones on India-Bangladesh Relations
Editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us today,Dr. Anik Sarker, a defense analyst and expert in drone technology. With recent developments regarding Bangladesh’s deployment of Bayraktar TB-2 drones along the Indian border, there’s a lot too unravel. Let’s delve into the implications of this strategic move.
Dr. Sarker: Thank you for having me. The deployment of the Bayraktar TB-2 drones by Bangladesh is indeed a significant development. It showcases an escalation in surveillance capabilities and also highlights the intensifying tensions between Bangladesh and India.
editor: Bangladesh has purchased and begun operating six of these advanced drones from Türkiye. How does this enhance their military capabilities?
Dr. Sarker: The bayraktar TB-2 drones are versatile assets, capable of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Their ability to conduct light strikes makes them especially advantageous in terms of operational flexibility. For Bangladesh, acquiring these drones not only bolsters its surveillance capabilities but also acts as a deterrent against perceived threats, particularly from India.
Editor: Given the context of rising tensions and reported increases in terrorist activity near the border, what concerns arise from this development for India?
Dr. Sarker: India is right to be concerned. the notion of extremist elements resurging in border areas, combined with the intelligence capabilities of the TB-2 drones, creates a complex security environment. This poses risks not only to border security but could also lead to broader geopolitical instability. The ongoing situation could perhaps escalate if both nations continue to enhance their drone capabilities in a tit-for-tat manner.
editor: It appears India is not sitting idle. Reports indicate that they might respond with their own advanced drones, like the Heron TP from Israel. How might this play out strategically?
Dr. Sarker: That’s correct. India’s Heron TP drones have long-range surveillance capabilities and can obtain real-time intelligence. the deployment of similar advanced technologies would not only counter the TB-2 drones but also act as a strategic deterrent. This could lead to a drone arms race in the region, raising the stakes for both nations significantly.
Editor: With these developments in drone technology and military strategy, what practical advice would you give to military strategists in both countries?
Dr. Sarker: Military strategists should prioritize developing thorough communication protocols and conflict de-escalation strategies. Engaging in diplomatic dialog can be beneficial to ensure both nations understand the limits of their military capabilities and intentions. Moreover, investing in collaborative defense initiatives could alleviate some of the tensions and foster a more secure environment overall.
Editor: as this situation evolves, what key industry insights can we draw regarding the future of drone warfare in South Asia?
Dr. Sarker: The utilization of drones is likely to expand within South Asia, driven by the increasing demands for surveillance and tactical response capabilities. Countries in the region might increasingly invest in advanced drone technology and infrastructure, which will be pivotal in shaping modern warfare. The trend suggests a shift towards more technology-driven military strategies, necessitating robust frameworks for regulating drone use to prevent conflict escalation.
Editor: Thank you for sharing your insights, Dr. Sarker.This rapid evolution of drone capabilities and its implications for regional security is indeed a topic that requires ongoing examination.
Dr. Sarker: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this vital issue. it’s crucial that we continue to monitor these developments closely.
This interview highlights the strategic implications of Bangladesh’s drone deployment, underscoring the need for dialogue and the potential for a technological arms race in the region.By taking a proactive stance, both nations can work towards easing tensions while advancing their military readiness.