Post Pathankot attack, security of all military bases to be reviewed

NEW DELHI: Stunned by a daring fidayeen attack at the vital Pathankot base of the Indian Air Force, the government has ordered a major review of all military establishments across the country. Government sources said that the decision was taken at a high level meeting and has been conveyed to all the three forces and other intelligence agencies.

Apart from the political setback to India-Pakistan relations, the Pathankot attack may damage India's image as a global nuclear power amid concerns whether security of nuclear establishments can be called foolproof.

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Even though the six terrorists were prevented from reaching the key 'technical area' of the strategic forward base — where MiG-21 fighter jets and Mi-35 attack helicopters are stationed — the attack has punched holes in the protective rings guarding these establishments.

The Pathankot air base has an 8-foot tall periphery wall with concertina wires and observation towers. This wall was reportedly reconstructed recently at an expenditure of Rs 15 crore.

In this case, there was prior intelligence on the terrorists and Punjab police commandoes had been stationed in advance. The National Security Guard had reached by Friday evening itself and IAF's Garud commandos were also called on alert from intelligence agen cies and defence forces conducting aerial surveillance.

The guards at the base even had night vision devices to see in the dark which the terrorists did not.

What has alarmed the secuity establishment is that despite all these measures in place, the terrorists managed to enter the base and caused substantial damage. The operation to neutralize six militants, in which more than 300 commandos from NSG, IAF and Army were involved, has already taken two days, which is also a matter of concern for the government.

India's crucial air bases, military camps and naval yards are close to inhabited areas on eastern and western borders. Any Pathankot like attack can jeopardise civilians too. Sources said that the Pathankot attack is an eye-opener for government and should lead to a stepping up of security of its military areas and assets.