Manipur, India- In an unprecedented escalation of violence in Manipur, alleged Kuki militants have deployed high-tech drones to drop mortar bombs and RPG shells on civilians and security forces in Koutruk, Imphal West. The attack marks the first time in the state’s history that drones have been used for such deadly purposes, signalling a new phase in the ongoing conflict between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes. Authorities have confirmed that the drones were government-subsidized agriculture drones, which have been repurposed for the attacks.

The attack has resulted in the tragic death of a 31-year-old woman from the Meitei community. Her 12-year-old daughter was among the five civilians injured, while two policemen also sustained injuries. The use of drones to drop explosives represents a significant escalation in the conflict, raising concerns about the involvement of external entities providing technical expertise and support to the militants. The Manipur Police have stated that they are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to respond to any further contingencies.  

Manipur Faces New Wave of Drone Warfare  

The recent attack in Koutruk is particularly alarming as it highlights the increasing sophistication of militant tactics in Manipur. Until recently, drones in the region were primarily used for reconnaissance purposes. However, this latest incident suggests that militants have now acquired the capability to carry out precision attacks using drones. The use of government-subsidized agriculture drones, coupled with 3D-printed ammunition, points to a worrying trend of advanced technology being employed in local conflicts.

The involvement of highly trained professionals in these attacks cannot be ruled out. Intelligence sources have confirmed that the drones used in the Koutruk attack were likely modified to carry and drop explosive devices, a tactic commonly seen in other conflict zones such as Ukraine. The combination of 3D-printed items and live metal shells used as ammunition further underscores the evolving nature of this conflict. The ability to produce such weapons locally, with minimal resources, poses a significant challenge to security forces operating in the region.  

Global Implications of Manipur's Drone Warfare  

The use of drones in Manipur is not just a local concern; it has broader implications for global security. Similar tactics have been employed by anti-Tatmadaw rebels in Myanmar, who have used 3D-printed rifles and other weapons in their fight against government forces. The ease with which these weapons can be produced, combined with the availability of technology online, makes them an attractive option for insurgent groups worldwide.

The ongoing ethnic violence in Manipur between the Meitei community and the Kuki tribes has now taken on an international dimension. The involvement of alleged Burmese terrorists in the conflict suggests that Manipur may be becoming a new front in the broader regional power struggle. As security forces continue to battle insurgents on the ground, the threat of further drone attacks looms large. The ability of militants to carry out such attacks with relative impunity raises serious questions about the adequacy of current security measures in the region.  

The situation in Manipur demands urgent attention from both national and international actors. The use of drones to drop bombs on civilians and security forces is a clear violation of international humanitarian law. It is imperative that the global community recognizes the gravity of this situation and takes steps to prevent further escalation. The potential for Manipur to become a new Ukraine—a conflict zone where advanced technology is used to devastating effect—should not be underestimated.