India fortifies Siliguri Corridor with Rafale and S-400 to repulse any threat from China or Bangladesh, silent warning to...

India.com

26-05-2025

(File)
New Delhi: The growing alliance between China and Bangladesh has raised concerns in India. India has taken significant steps to rein in China and Bangladesh. Recently, Chinese military officials inspected an old airbase in Lalmonirhat, Bangladesh, which is just a short distance from India's Siliguri Corridor. This corridor, often referred to as the 'Chicken's Neck', is extremely important for India as it connects the northeastern states to the rest of the country.
The sharp statements against India by the Chief of Bangladesh's interim government, Mohammed Yunus, have added fuel to the fire. Yunus government is increasing its friendship with China and Pakistan, deepening India's worries.
In view of the increasing threat, India has enhanced its military strength in the Siliguri Corridor. A few days ago, the Indian Army conducted a military exercise near it. Meanwhile, reports have emerged that the Russian-made S-400 Triumph air defense system has been deployed, which can simultaneously destroy multiple aerial threats at a range of up to 400 kilometers.
Additionally, a squadron of Rafale fighter jets equipped with Meteor missiles and advanced electronic warfare systems has been stationed at Hashimara Airbase. BrahMos cruise missile regiments and Akash missile systems are also deployed in the area, capable of responding immediately to any threat.
Last year, the incident of a Bangladeshi Bayraktar TB2 drone flying near the India-Bangladesh border made India more alert. The Indian Army has warned that if any aircraft or drone enters Indian airspace, it will be destroyed immediately. Bangladesh has purchased 12 TB2 drones from Turkey and is now planning to buy Pakistan-China manufactured JF-17 Thunder fighter jets, which is a matter of concern for India.
The Siliguri Corridor/ Chicken's Neck is a stretch of land around the city of Siliguri in West Bengal. It measures 20–22 kilometres at the narrowest section. This corridor connects the seven states of northeast India to the rest of India.