Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir were placed on high alert after multiple Pakistan drones were spotted along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) on Sunday evening. The sightings triggered ground search operations, counter-drone measures by the Indian Army, and heightened vigilance across frontier districts.
This latest incident underscores ongoing cross-border security challenges involving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and sharpens focus on surveillance and counter-UAV responses at India’s western borders.
Table of Contents
- Pakistan drones spotted: Where and how they were detected
- Security response: Army fire and search operations
- Border regions affected: Samba, Rajouri, Poonch & more
- Historical context of drone activities on the border
- Why Pakistan drones matter for national security
- Quick takeaway
1. Pakistan drones spotted: Where and how they were detected
On the evening of January 11, 2026, forward areas in Jammu and Kashmir witnessed the movement of multiple drones believed to originate from Pakistan. Officials reported that the flying objects were first picked up over the Nowshera sector of Rajouri, before other sightings in villages and forward areas, triggering alarm among defence forces and local security agencies.
Several drone-like objects were observed hovering briefly over Indian territory before retreating toward Pakistan, according to defence sources.
2. Security response: Army fire and search operations
In response to the Pakistan drones spotted, Indian Army units deployed along the LoC and IB took counter-measures, including firing at the aerial objects in the Nowshera sector of Rajouri district. Machine guns and other equipment were used to try and deter the UAVs, while ground troops launched extensive search operations to check if any arms, ammunition, narcotics, or other contraband had been dropped.
Security forces have also been positioned to monitor any further drone activity, with specific attention to forward villages and border sectors that have experienced repeated sightings.
3. Border regions affected: Samba, Rajouri, Poonch & more
Several districts along the India-Pakistan border reported drone sightings:
- Samba District: Drones were reported in sectors such as Chak Babral and Ramgarh, hovering briefly before retreat.
- Rajouri (Nowshera & Teryath areas): Army opened fire on UAVs after spotting movement over Gania-Kalsian and Khabbar village sectors.
- Poonch District: Drones were seen moving near the Mankote sector around early evening hours.
Search operations were also launched in adjoining forward areas to assess any possible payload drops and ensure border security.
4. Historical context of drone activities on the border
The recent Pakistan drones spotted incident is not isolated. For several years, security forces along the western border have detected UAV movements, some carrying narcotics or weapons. In previous years, the Border Security Force (BSF) noted hundreds of drone sightings, leading to seizures and counter-operations along the Punjab and J&K frontier.
Past reports have documented drones being intercepted or recovered by Indian forces, reflecting an ongoing asymmetric security challenge.
5. Why Pakistan drones matter for national security
The increasing frequency of drones crossing border airspace — whether for surveillance, smuggling, or potential infiltration — poses multiple threats:
- Surveillance risk: UAVs can relay tactical information back to hostile actors.
- Contraband drops: Drones have been linked to smuggling of weapons, drugs, or ammunition.
- Border tensions: Frequent aerial intrusions escalate security concerns and can trigger military responses.
To counter such asymmetric threats, India has invested in anti-UAV systems and enhanced border surveillance technologies, including jammers, radar networks, and rapid response teams.
🧠 Quick Takeaway
The latest reports of Pakistan drones spotted along the LoC and IB highlight persistent security challenges for India’s border forces. With multiple sightings near Samba, Rajouri, and Poonch — and active responses from the Indian Army — this incident underscores the need for vigilant monitoring and rapid counter-drone strategies. As the situation continues to develop, security agencies remain on high alert to prevent any unlawful activities or threats to civilian safety.
Last Updated on: Monday, January 12, 2026 11:03 am by Praneetha Kattamidi | Published by: Praneetha Kattamidi on Monday, January 12, 2026 11:03 am | News Categories: Startups
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