The Eagle Squad, a venture under the Internal Security Wing (ISW) overseeing VVIP protection in Telangana, is on the verge of becoming operational
Telangana Police’s groundbreaking Eagle Squad, primed to tackle drone threats, showcased its prowess at the Integrated Intelligence Training Academy in Moinabad. Three meticulously trained smart eagles, honed over three years, demonstrated remarkable precision in intercepting drones. Among them, one eagle was equipped with surveillance cameras to capture images of potential targets.
The Eagle Squad, a venture under the Internal Security Wing (ISW) overseeing VVIP protection in Telangana, is on the verge of becoming operational. Deputy Inspector General of Police (ISW), Tafseer Iqbal, shed light on the project, stating, “This demonstration is the culmination of three years of rigorous experimentation and hard work. We meticulously selected eagle species and devised effective training methods.” Collaborating with bird trainers Abir Bhandary and Md Fareed, Telangana Police has spearheaded India’s sole eagle squad and the world’s second, following the Netherlands.
Iqbal emphasised the squad’s utility in red-zone areas where drones are prohibited, showcasing its cost-effectiveness. “The significant advantage lies in its economical nature. Unlike investing in costly nano and macro-level drone projects, the eagle squad requires only investment in birds and training,” added the IPS officer, now serving as the Special Secretary to the Government and Commissioner of the Minority Welfare Department. “These trained birds excel at spotting and neutralizing drones swiftly, attracting global interest.”
Notably, the Dutch police initiated a similar eagle squad in 2016, albeit discontinuing it after a year due to inefficiency, high maintenance costs, and concerns about the birds’ safety.
Experts stress the importance of considering bird safety in such initiatives. Bird behaviorist Ali noted potential risks posed by drone propellers and anti-collision sensors. “Eagles, with their weight and wingspan, are well-suited for the task. However, their efficacy in neutralizing drones varies depending on drone size,” Ali remarked, advocating for the welfare of these birds through his initiative, Fancy Feathers.
