Advancements in drone technology provide India with a significant advantage in border surveillance. Drones, equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors, efficiently cover vast areas, offering real-time footage for continuous monitoring and swift responses to potential threats. Their cost-effectiveness and minimal manpower requirements surpass traditional methods like manned aircraft or ground patrols.

“Given the sensitive geopolitical situation with neighboring countries, drones are maneuverable in diverse terrains and weather conditions, ensuring effective surveillance along India’s borders. With night vision and thermal imaging, they excel in low-light environments, further enhancing surveillance capabilities. Rapid deployment aids in timely intelligence gathering, reducing risks to personnel by minimizing ground patrols,” Bodhisattva Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO of IG Drones, tells Financial Express Online.

According to him, “Integration with radar and satellite imagery strengthens surveillance capabilities, reinforcing India’s national security interests effectively. Given the strategic importance of border security, especially in regions with strained relations, such technology becomes crucial in preventing incidents like the 1999 Kargil conflict.”

Following are excerpts of an exclusive interaction of Bodhisattva Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO of IG Drones with Huma Siddiqui:

Bodhisattva Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO of IG Drones.
Bodhisattva Sanghapriya, Founder and CEO of IG Drones (Image: PR handout)

What role can drones play in reconnaissance missions to gather intelligence and monitor hostile activities?

Drones are crucial for reconnaissance missions as they gather intelligence and monitor hostile activities. Fitted with high-resolution cameras and sensors, they offer real-time aerial footage for surveillance. Drones are cost-effective, swiftly deployable, and adaptable, enabling thorough coverage of various terrains. Equipped with night vision and thermal imaging, they function well in low-light environments, ensuring continuous monitoring and prompt threat detection. This enhances situational awareness and enables timely security responses to safeguard against potential threats effectively.

In what ways can drones support Indian military operations?

Drones provide versatile assistance to Indian military operations. With advanced sensors and cameras, they perform reconnaissance, offering real-time intelligence on enemy positions and movements. Armed drones conduct precise strikes on hostile targets, minimizing risks to personnel. Furthermore, drones enhance security by surveilling border regions and strategic locations. Their swift deployment aids in emergency response and disaster relief. Additionally, drones contribute to aerial mapping, target identification, and logistical support, bolstering situational awareness, operational efficiency, and combat effectiveness, thereby strengthening India’s military capabilities across diverse domains.

What measures are being taken to ensure the security and reliability of drone communication networks?

Security and reliability of drone communication networks are ensured through encryption protocols, authentication mechanisms, and anti-jamming technologies. Additionally, redundant communication links and frequency-hopping techniques mitigate signal interference and enhance resilience. Continuous monitoring, threat detection systems, and regulatory frameworks also safeguard against cyber threats and unauthorized access and a high level of firewall safety can help avoid any mishaps.

How can partnerships with domestic and international drone manufacturers and technology developers facilitate the rapid deployment and adoption of cutting-edge drone capabilities?

Partnerships with domestic and international drone manufacturers and technology developers can expedite the deployment and adoption of cutting-edge drone capabilities. Collaborations enable access to advanced technologies, expertise, and resources, accelerating research, development, and production processes. Shared knowledge and best practices contribute to innovation and the creation of tailored solutions for specific needs. Additionally, partnerships foster interoperability standards and regulatory alignment, streamlining integration into existing infrastructure and operational frameworks, and ultimately promoting widespread adoption of drone technologies.

How are IG Drones preparing themselves to serve the Indian defense sector?

We, at IG Drones, are preparing to serve the Indian defense sector by focusing on several key areas. Firstly, we are investing in research and development to enhance our drone technologies, ensuring they meet the specific needs and requirements of defense applications. Secondly, we are strengthening our manufacturing capabilities to produce drones at scale and with high reliability. Additionally, we are collaborating with defense agencies to understand their operational challenges and customize solutions accordingly. We also ensure compliance with regulatory standards and security protocols to guarantee the integrity and reliability of our products and services for defense applications. Overall, we are positioning ourselves as reliable partners for the Indian defense sector by offering cutting-edge technology, robust manufacturing processes, and tailored solutions to meet defense needs effectively.