Tensions Soar as Pakistani Drones Intrude Over Indian Airspace

On Friday, Pakistani drones sparked alarm as they flew over the Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot sectors, prompting India to enforce blackouts and intercept the aircraft. The aggression follows India's Operation Sindoor, targeting terror sites in Pakistan, escalating tensions between the two nations.

Tensions in Jammu escalated on Friday as defence officials reported sightings of Pakistani drones in the Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot sectors. The Indian air defence system swiftly responded, intercepting several drones, with red streaks and explosions lighting up the night in the Samba sector.

In a move to mitigate the threat, a precautionary blackout was enforced across multiple regions, including Akhnoor, Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir, and parts of Haryana such as Ambala and Panchkula. Similar measures were taken in Firozpur, Punjab, and Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, reflecting heightened security concerns.

Colonel Sofiya Qureshi disclosed during a press briefing that 300 to 400 drones, reportedly Turkish-made Asisguard Songar, attempted infiltration at 36 locations. The Indian forces successfully neutralized several using advanced defence techniques. This significant intrusion comes on the heels of India's Operation Sindoor, a counter-terrorism initiative against key targets in Pakistan following a recent escalation in cross-border violence.

(With inputs from agencies.)