Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha, Director General and Colonel Commandant of the Indian Army Air Defence, concluded a three-day strategic visit to Misa Camp and Bhalukmara from August 11 to 13 to review the operational readiness of Army Air Defence (AAD) units.
The visit took place against the backdrop of heightened regional security concerns following Operation Sindoor in May 2025, when Indian forces neutralised key Pakistani air defence positions in response to a deadly terror attack.
Emphasis on Drone Threats and Integrated Defence
During his assessment, Lt Gen D’Cunha interacted with troops across all ranks, commending their training, administrative efficiency and innovative problem-solving. He highlighted the rising threat from unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and stressed the need for a fully integrated deployment of AAD systems to effectively neutralise such threats in modern combat scenarios.
Global defence studies echo his concerns. A 2023 RAND Corporation report documented a 300 percent rise in UAS-related incidents in conflict zones since 2015, underlining the urgency for advanced, multi-layered defence networks.
Strategic Importance of Bhalukmara
Bhalukmara holds historical significance for its role in supporting Mukti Bahini operations during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War. Its strategic location, once linked to Pakistani military presence, continues to play an important part in India’s regional defence posture.
Distinguished Career and Expertise
An alumnus of the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, Lt Gen D’Cunha was commissioned into the Corps of Army Air Defence in December 1988. He holds an MSc in Radars and Metallurgy, an M.Phil in Defence and Strategic Studies, and a PhD in Management. His career includes international assignments and multiple commendations for service excellence.
The Indian Army remains committed to enhancing its air defence capabilities, integrating advanced technologies and preparing for evolving threats to safeguard national security.
