India’s humanitarian outreach to the earthquake-hit Myanmar, codenamed Operation Brahma, has not only demonstrated logistical agility but also highlighted emerging threats in modern conflict zones.
While the Indian Air Force (IAF) continues to airlift critical supplies and medical teams into the region, a shadow has emerged over the mission: advanced, sophisticated electronic interference and cyber sabotage targeting the mission.
As previously reported, Operation Brahma, launched on 29 March, mobilized the IAF’s C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft to deliver relief materials, medical personnel, and an engineering reconnaissance team.
However, in the early days of the operation, as these aircraft entered Myanmar’s airspace, Indian defence officials confirmed they encountered GPS anomalies, communication disruptions, and navigational glitches—clear signs of GPS spoofing and cyber intrusion.
About Spoofing Attacks
Such attacks, according to experts, involve broadcasting counterfeit GPS signals to mislead aircraft systems. These attacks have been known to cause incidents such as altitude mismatches, erratic location shifts, and even the temporary disappearance of pre-designated drop zones.
Digital interference from these attacks can severely endanger mission safety, especially in remote areas or regions damaged by earthquakes during natural disasters.
At the same time, Indian cyber defence units detected attempts to breach mission planning systems. They observed signs of phishing emails, malware injections, and unauthorized attempts to access data.
Sources suggest that these efforts were likely intended to disrupt the efficiency and effectiveness of India’s relief operations.
IAF’s Response
Responding swiftly, the IAF pilots switched to Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) and TACAN-based navigation. They also employed terrain-following radar and encrypted SATCOM channels to ensure operational integrity.
Also, Strict EMCON (Emission Control) protocols were activated to minimize electronic exposure and prevent further spoofing attempts.
Security analysts describe the interference as a textbook example of grey zone tactics—covert and deniable actions taken below the threshold of war aimed at harassing or weakening adversaries without engaging in open conflict.
“What we’re witnessing is the weaponization of humanitarian corridors,” said a senior officer, who requested to remain anonymous.
It’s a battlefield of bandwidths, not just borders!
Despite these challenges, Operation Brahma has continued without interruption. On 6 April, an Indian Army Engineer Team was deployed to Myanmar to assess structural damage in the Mandalay and Naypyidaw regions. The team inspected multiple critical sites, including seven major bridges and over 350 buildings, and provided preliminary recommendations for controlled demolitions and infrastructure restoration.
The Indian Army Field Hospital in Mandalay continues to operate, having treated over 2,500 patients since deployment. On 11 April alone, 289 patients were treated, two major surgeries were performed, and 722 lab investigations were carried out.
Additionally, robotic mules and nano drones have been deployed to assist search and rescue (SAR) efforts in challenging terrains.
India’s multifaceted response to the crisis in Myanmar—encompassing high-altitude relief drops, engineering assistance, and medical support—enhances its reputation as a responsible regional power. However, the recent GPS spoofing incident serves as a stark reminder that future humanitarian missions may increasingly encounter non-kinetic threats, such as cyber warfare and electronic attacks.
As India enhances its digital defences, observers call for international cooperation to create resilient navigation systems, improve anomaly detection, and establish global norms to prevent electronic warfare in humanitarian contexts.
Operation Brahma, which originated from a spirit of compassion, is now a testing ground for resilience in an era where even disaster zones are vulnerable to the darker aspects of digital conflict.
