Sealing key passes to redeployment: Army gears for first Valley winter after Pahalgam terror attack

For example, unlike past instances of terrorists establishing a single hideout away from populated areas, they are now expected to use two-three hideouts located within a radius of three to five kilometres and switch between them using the snow cover.

The terrorists, sources said, may avoid communicating from their hideouts and will instead go for it only when they are closer to populated areas. And instead of relying completely on specialised applications to send encrypted messages, they are likely to utilise the local mobile network to avoid detection, blending in with the high volume of calls in that network. They are likely to move out of their hideouts only in extreme emergencies.

Last year, The Indian Express reported that terrorists were using the Ultra Set communication equipment to encrypt and send messages to their handlers across the LoC. This basic radio set, connected to a mobile set without a SIM card, can be switched off immediately after messages are sent, making it difficult for security forces to intercept the communications.

According to sources, the winter deployment of troops will be carried out in view of the tactics of terrorists.

“Efforts will be made to significantly enhance anti-infiltration measures using additional technology such as thermal imagers, improved cameras, and small drones,” a source said.

Learning from past operations, there will be an increased emphasis on gathering human intelligence on the ground in addition to relying on technical intelligence, which has been significantly enhanced over the last few years, the source said.

Sources also indicated that there will be redeployment of certain units from their permanent locations, considering operational requirements, which will prevent complacency among troops and maintain high levels of alertness.

“Such shifts will ensure that troops have fresh opportunities to familiarise themselves with the new terrain they are assigned to,” another source said.

These changes might have some immediate administrative effects, but they will yield operational benefits since area domination is expected to increase as a result of the familiarisation efforts.

Moreover, there will be enhanced surveillance along the LoC and within the hinterland. Sources said a quicker reaction capability will be developed through the establishment of speedier Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs), and there may be the use of additional drones, including Kamikaze drones. Increased efforts will also be made to improve coordination among security forces and agencies for effective information sharing.