In a significant advancement towards gender inclusivity and technological development, the Border Security Force (BSF) has established its first-ever all-women “Durga Drone Squadron” at the School of Drone Warfare (SDW) within the BSF Academy in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. This initiative is emblematic of the evolving landscape in India’s security architecture, where the integration of women into frontline operational roles meets the demands of modern technology.
The Durga Drone Squadron, named after the goddess Durga—a potent symbol of strength and protection—represents a substantial step forward in incorporating women into critical roles involving autonomous systems and drone-based surveillance. The formation of this unit highlights the convergence of technology and gender empowerment, enhancing the capabilities of border management.
Members of the squadron underwent comprehensive training at the SDW, regarded as one of India’s premier centers for Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter-drone warfare. Their extensive curriculum covered several crucial areas, including aerial surveillance and photogrammetry, payload integration, electronic counter-measures, terrain analysis, infiltration detection simulations, real-time intelligence gathering, and night operations. This high-level training equips the squadron to undertake a variety of missions, from anti-smuggling operations to disaster response and tactical surveillance.
The Durga Squadron is armed with indigenous long-endurance UAVs and Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) drones. These capabilities enable the unit to function effectively in challenging environments where traditional patrolling methods may be impractical or unsafe. The drones are developed under the Make in India initiative, ensuring they are compatible with existing paramilitary and defense systems.
Officials within the BSF have lauded the Durga Drone Squadron as both strategically significant and symbolically impactful. Strategically, it enhances aerial intelligence and surveillance operations. Symbolically, it reflects the increasing involvement of women in India’s border security and defense technology sectors.
Looking ahead, the BSF intends to replicate this pioneering model across its various frontier commands by 2026. Plans for establishing a network of regional training centers that are linked to the Gwalior SDW are already in motion. This expansion aims to create an integrated drone-based surveillance grid that works seamlessly with the BSF’s broader electronic intelligence systems.
Ultimately, the introduction of the Durga Drone Squadron embodies BSF’s commitment to modernization, innovation, and inclusivity. It signifies the dawn of a new era in India’s approach to border security, where women play pivotal roles in high-tech surveillance and intelligence operations, bolstering the nation’s self-reliance and operational effectiveness.
