Amid rising threat from China, Bangladesh, Modi govt makes big move, deploys Rafales, S-400s at…
Amid rising tensions from China and Bangladesh, India has deployed its Russian-built S-400 long-range air defence system to the Siliguri Corridor – a narrow, 20–22 km-wide land bridge which is located in West Bengal, also called “Chicken’s Neck” due to its geography. This narrow strip of land is the sole land connection between mainland India and its resource-rich, geographically isolated northeastern region, making it one of India’s most vulnerable military arteries.
The decision has been taken following the increased frequency and complexity of Chinese and Bangladeshi air manoeuvres along their respective borders connected with the Siliguri Corridor.
It is noteworthy that the corridor, for decades, has represented a geographical choke point defence matrix. The military planners have been warning of a planned pincer thrust by the Dragon via the Doklam Plateau.
The timing of the deployment coincides with the diplomatic move by the Mohammad Yunus-led government, which inclined to Beijing.
After the fall of Sheikh Hasina government, the caretaker government led by Muhammad Yunus has openly inclined towards China and Pakistan.
India has consistently rejected the BRI, warning that it enables the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to embed dual-use infrastructure across the Indo-Pacific, undermining sovereignty and military balance in the region.
As of April 2025, several reports suggest that Dhaka is planning to establish a Chinese-supported airbase in its northern Lalmonirhat district.
This move has alarmed India, the site’s close proximity to the Siliguri Corridb
India has strengthened its defense capabilities. The deployment of BrahMos cruise missiles allows for swift, accurate strikes on land and sea targets up to 500 kilometers away. A multi-tiered air defense system (Akash, SHORAD, and VSHORAD) protects the Siliguri Corridor from low-flying threats. Furthermore, to prevent surveillance near sensitive border areas, drone flights are restricted within a 10-kilometer radius of the international boundary, according to Indian military officials.
News