The Pakistan Army is actively facilitating the infiltration of militants into India, with at least 50 highly trained Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives currently stationed in the Kashmir Valley. These militants are strategically positioned in elevated terrains to shield themselves and carry out attacks on Indian security forces. For the first time, according to local media reports citing Indian Army intelligence sources, these operatives are operating without the support of Overground Workers (OGWs), as the ISI fears that OGWs may compromise their operations by leaking information, leaving the militants vulnerable.
To enhance their operations, the ISI has provided the militants with an offline version of the Alpine Quest app. Originally designed in Australia as a navigation tool for trekkers, the app has reportedly been modified to include sensitive data on Indian security forces, such as troop movements, CRPF camp locations, and checking barricades. This app is enabling terrorists to operate independently, eliminating the need for OGWs. Designed to function offline, it remains operational even in remote, high-altitude areas with no mobile connectivity, providing critical support for their activities.
The militants are reportedly avoiding lower altitudes due to continued losses and are instead remaining in mid-ridge areas, which are difficult to access. Reaching these locations often requires hours of trekking from nearby villages.
The operatives are also reportedly equipped with highly encrypted Ultra radio communication devices linked to servers in Pakistan. These devices enable secure communication between militants in different regions, such as Kupwara and Anantnag, by utilizing repeater stations and encrypted servers. The advanced encryption technology has made real-time interception or decryption by Indian agencies highly challenging, as per reports.
Reports suggest these militants are extensively trained, targeting high-value objectives and leveraging attack videos to spread fear among local populations. Agencies are reportedly facing considerable difficulties in countering this new wave of infiltration, which is marked by advanced tactics and operational strategies, apart from Alpine Quest usage.
Previously too, terrorists have used new and sometimes disruptive technology to conclude their deeds on the Indian side of the border, like drones, night-vision devices, thermal equipment, advanced encrypted communication devices, IEDs, and even cyber tools.
Tech in Infiltration
Terrorist organizations have been known to use a variety of advanced technologies to infiltrate borders, coordinate operations, and evade detection not just in India but globally as well. For example, encrypted communication platforms like Telegram and Signal enable secure and anonymous coordination among groups. The dark web also provides a hidden space for terrorists to communicate, share information, and organize activities without the risk of surveillance.
Social media is another key tool, with platforms such as Twitter and Facebook being used for propaganda and recruitment. In 2017, ISIS exploited Twitter to spread messages and recruit members. Fake profiles and AI-generated content, like deepfake videos, further amplify their reach and credibility.
Drones have become integral to surveillance and attacks. ISIS, for instance, used small drones to drop explosives on enemy positions in Syria and Iraq. Similarly, GPS and navigation apps like Google Maps are often used by terrorists to plan routes and avoid checkpoints, making border crossings more challenging to track. Additionally, tools like radio frequency (RF) detectors help to avoid detection by surveillance equipment.
High-tech forgery is another tactic; terrorists use sophisticated methods to produce fake passports and visas, as seen in the 2015 Paris attacks, where attackers had forged documents. They also utilize cyberattacks to hack into border control databases, erasing or altering travel records. Cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin, are used to fund operations anonymously, without leaving a trace in traditional financial systems.
Smuggling methods, such as using hidden compartments in vehicles or tunnels, are also prevalent. For instance, terrorist organizations in Mexico and the Middle East have used tunnels for trafficking people and weapons.
Security forces counter these threats with advanced technologies like AI-driven border surveillance and drone detection systems, but the rapid innovation of terrorist tactics continues to challenge security efforts worldwide. The same has been the case in India as well over the years when drones have been found to supply drugs, weapons, and other contraband on this side of the border. Alpine Quest is the latest in this series of advancements in utility.
