In a major pre-dawn security operation, the Indian Army's Air Defence units on Saturday morning successfully intercepted and neutralised multiple Pakistani kamikaze drones over Amritsar, Punjab, averting what could have been a deadly strike on civilian areas. According to sources in the defence establishment, the incident occurred at approximately 0500 hours when Pakistani forces launched several Byker YIHA III unmanned aerial vehicles across the International Border. These kamikaze-style drones were reportedly aimed at densely populated zones near Amritsar and were equipped with high-explosive payloads designed to cause mass casualties and structural damage.
Using quick-reaction air-defence guns positioned in depth along the border belt, AAD gunners brought down the drones in mid-air, ensuring that no debris fell on civilian property and that no casualties were sustained. The prompt neutralisation of this threat underscores the effectiveness of India’s layered air-defence grid, which integrates ground-based radars, electro-optical sensors, and automated command-and-control systems.
For the unversed, Kamikaze drones are also known as loitering munitions or suicide drones.
MEA on Pakistan's drone attack on Punjab
Addressing the media,
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said, "Pakistan continues with its execrable and wanton campaign of targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure, especially in the states of Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab. There is also an attempt to sow discontent among communities in India. There has been particular focus on its targeting of civilian infrastructure and civilians in Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab. Earlier this morning, Pakistan shelled the town of Rajori, killing the Additional District Development Commissioner Rajkumar Thappa. We have also observed overnight damage to property and injuries to civilians in Ferozepur and Jalandhar, among other places."
"Pakistani officials also continue to make ludicrous claims about India firing missiles towards Sri Amritsar Sahib. As I said, these lame attempts to divide India are doomed to failure," concluded Vikram Misri.
