Indo-Tibetan Border Police Enhances Drone Capabilities Against China

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) is undertaking a substantial enhancement of its capabilities by establishing drone units, advancing training programmes, and constructing underground facilities aimed at countering the increasing military tactics of China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The ITBP has formed drone platoons in all its border units and introduced a new 'Strike' training course designed to better prepare personnel for confrontations similar to the Galwan Valley clash in June 2020, which resulted in fatalities for both Indian and Chinese troops.

During an address at a force base in Alwar, Rajasthan, ITBP Director General Shatrujeet Singh Kapoor outlined the evolving transformations within the agency. He stated that traditional combat methods have become outdated, emphasising the need for modernisation. He pointed out that drone warfare has become essential, showcased by recent conflicts such as the Ukraine-Russia war, where smaller nations have effectively leveraged drone technology against larger powers.

“Drones have become a major challenge and an opportunity also. It will be difficult to compete with China using traditional methods... They have modernised and invested heavily in their People's Liberation Army but drones are such that a small country can give a befitting contest to a bigger nation,” Kapoor stated.

With a strength of approximately 95,000 personnel, the ITBP is responsible for securing India’s 3,488-km long border with China. Kapoor mentioned that the Indian government has allocated ₹400 crore (around £40 million) for upgrading the ITBP’s drone capabilities, with about 70 per cent of this funding directed towards drone warfare.

Additionally, a modernisation scheme worth ₹4,000 crore (approximately £400 million) has been approved, including ₹1,000 crore for drone and anti-drone systems. Each battalion will now have a dedicated drone unit, with training for drone pilots and development of drone technology already underway.

The director general elaborated that a new combat formation, named the Shaurya commandos, has been established. These commandos are intended to enhance the force’s readiness and capabilities along the border, particularly amidst ongoing tensions with the Chinese military.

In addressing infrastructure needs, the ITBP is scaling up the construction of underground shelters along its borders. The aim is to create fortified positions less vulnerable to aerial bombardment, utilising lessons learned from recent conflicts. Kapoor elaborated on ensuring troop comfort and operational readiness by equipping barracks with insulation and power sources to endure harsh winter conditions.

He reiterated the importance of a healthy force, highlighting a new diet initiative to reduce high sugar and oil content and raise awareness regarding issues such as Alcohol Dependence Syndrome among personnel, which has seen a notable increase since 2020.

Kapoor concluded by encouraging the troops to stay vigilant against security threats, including potential espionage through social media engagements. Furthermore, he underlined that the ITBP is committed to modernising its weaponry and enhancing mobility with new vehicles suitable for high-altitude conditions, preparing the force as a specialised mountain-fighting unit. The director general stated, “We have prepared a plan to become a specialised high-altitude mountain fighting force through all these measures.”