New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has identified and taken action against Chinese spy balloons detected over Indian airspace, causing concern within the government. Recently, an IAF jet intercepted and shot down one such balloon flying at approximately 55,000 feet over the eastern border with China.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the incident involved a Rafael fighter jet stationed at Hasimara in West Bengal. The aircraft engaged the balloon, which was equipped with a payload, using one of its missiles. Following this engagement, the IAF is reportedly developing standard operating procedures to address similar future threats effectively.

Another sighting was reported over the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal; however, that balloon was not engaged militarily.

The report also highlighted communications between the IAF and the United States Air Force concerning this issue. A 2023 U.S. Department of Defense report, titled ‘Military and security developments involving the People’s Republic of China,’ indicated that China has been investing in high-altitude balloon technology for military and commercial use since the mid-2000s, with active testing since 2015.

This development follows similar incidents in the United States where Chinese balloons were detected and dealt with in 2023.