Indian Army’s Alleged Drone Strikes on ULFA‑I and NSCN‑K Camps in Myanmar: A Detailed Overview

In mid-July 2025, reports emerged of a significant military operation targeting insurgent groups along the India-Myanmar border. The banned militant outfits United Liberation Front of Asom‑Independent (ULFA‑I) and National Socialist Council of Nagaland‑Khaplang (NSCN‑K) claimed that Indian forces conducted precision drone strikes on their camps deep inside Myanmar’s Sagaing Region. This marked a potential escalation in India’s approach toward insurgency in the northeast, utilizing advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to target entrenched military bases.

Paresh Baruah is the self-styled commander-in-chief of Ulfa (I), leading the anti-talks faction of the banned separatist outfit. (File Image) | India Today

The Reported Strikes and Targeted Locations

According to ULFA‑I statements, the Indian Army launched a well-coordinated attack employing over 100 drones, reportedly of Israeli and French origin, during the early hours between 2 AM and 4 AM. The strikes targeted multiple mobile camps, notably including ULFA‑I’s Eastern Command Headquarters at Hoyat Basti and a camp at Waktham Basti. These areas, situated in Myanmar’s Sagaing Region, have long been used as safe havens by insurgents operating against Indian interests.

The operation, as described by ULFA‑I, involved a two-stage assault. The initial wave resulted in significant damage to militant infrastructure and casualties, while a second strike reportedly targeted a funeral procession for one of the slain commanders.

Casualties and Leadership Losses

ULFA‑I claimed the operation dealt a severe blow to its leadership. Lieutenant General Nayan Medhi, also known by his nom de guerre Nayan Asom, was reportedly killed during the first strike. The group alleges that 19 cadres were injured in this initial attack. Furthermore, during the funeral rites of Nayan Asom, a subsequent missile strike is said to have killed Brigadier Ganesh Asom and Colonel Pradip Asom, two other senior ULFA‑I leaders. These claims, if accurate, point to a devastating impact on the group’s command structure.

Official Denials and Conflicting Narratives

Despite these assertions, Indian security forces have publicly denied any involvement in the strikes. Army officials and Assam’s state authorities have stated they possess no operational information to support the militant group’s claims. Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, also refuted participation by Indian forces in any such cross-border operations.

The denials have fueled speculation regarding the true perpetrators and motivations behind the attacks. Some analysts suggest that the casualties may be the result of Myanmar’s internal conflict, where clashes among various ethnic armed groups and the Myanmar military continue unabated. The opaque nature of the region’s security environment complicates independent verification of the incident.

Strategic Implications and Regional Security Dynamics

If confirmed as an Indian operation, this drone strike would represent a significant development in New Delhi’s counterinsurgency tactics, marking a shift towards employing advanced UAV technology in cross-border missions. Historically, militant groups from northeast India, including ULFA‑I and NSCN‑K, have exploited remote areas of Myanmar, particularly the Sagaing Region, as sanctuaries to regroup and plan attacks.

The use of unmanned drones for targeted strikes suggests a move towards precision engagements designed to minimize Indian casualties while delivering tactical blows to insurgent capabilities. This approach also reflects India’s increasing concern over the nexus between insurgent outfits and external actors, including those allegedly supported by neighboring countries.

At the same time, such operations carry significant diplomatic and security risks, given Myanmar’s fragile political situation and ongoing civil war. Unauthorized cross-border strikes could complicate bilateral relations and provoke retaliatory actions.

Conclusion

The reported drone strikes on ULFA‑I and NSCN‑K camps in Myanmar underscore the complex and evolving nature of insurgency and counterinsurgency in India’s northeast region. While ULFA‑I’s claims depict a sophisticated, lethal strike that decimated key leadership, official Indian sources deny involvement, leaving the true narrative uncertain.

What remains clear is that the use of drone technology in this context signals a new era in regional security operations, where technological advancements enable deeper and more precise action against insurgent groups. Moving forward, the situation demands careful monitoring, as it carries potential implications not only for India’s internal security but also for regional stability and diplomatic relations with Myanmar.

(Sources: OpIndia, India Today, NDTV)