ISRO Facilities Declared “No Drone Zones” to Strengthen Security Protocols
Drones and other unmanned aerial systems are strictly prohibited on the grounds of the Ammonium Perchlorate Experimental Plant (APEP) in Aluva, Ernakulam, and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) campuses in and around Thiruvananthapuram. The state government has put the restriction in place with the intention of strengthening security around India’s top space research facilities.
Drones, remotely piloted aircraft, balloon-mounted cameras, and lantern kites are not allowed to fly within two kilometers of ISRO’s strategic campuses, per the official order. The ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU) at Vattiyoorkavu, the Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC) at Valiyamala, and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) in Thumba are among the sites covered by this directive. These facilities, which house sensitive technologies used in satellite launches, propulsion research, and navigation systems, are essential to the country’s space missions.
The action was taken in response to growing international concerns about drone incursions close to high-security areas, such as military and research facilities. Drones have been recognized as possible threats in a number of nations because of their capacity to carry out surveillance, obtain intelligence, or deliver payloads covertly. India has also seen a number of security incidents involving drones, especially close to important infrastructure and along its borders.
The security of ISRO’s research and development facilities has become more crucial as India’s space program progresses with well-known missions like Chandrayaan, Gaganyaan, and Aditya-L1. Stricter aerial surveillance controls have been required due to the potential for drone technology to be used for espionage, data theft, or sabotage.
The strict enforcement of the no-fly zone has been mandated for law enforcement agencies. Electronic monitoring systems and ground patrols have been used to increase surveillance around the designated areas. It is highly recommended that the public avoid using any aerial devices in the vicinity of these installations. Any infractions will be considered a national security breach and dealt with in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Rules, 2021, the Aircraft Act, and the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation have also released particular drone usage guidelines in recent years, categorizing airspace zones and requiring prior authorization via the Digital Sky Platform. Drone operations are strictly prohibited on ISRO property unless specifically permitted by the appropriate authorities, which is known as the “red zone.”
India is establishing itself as a major player in satellite services and space exploration worldwide, and the recently announced “No Drone Zone” around ISRO’s campuses in Kerala is part of a larger national effort to improve aerospace and infrastructure security.
CEO, Mavdrones
Pradipta V Mukherjee is the visionary CEO of Mavdrones & Drone Pathshala, driving innovation and growth in the drone industry. With a passion for advanced technology, he leads the company's strategic direction, ensuring Mavdrones stays at the forefront of drone solutions. Under his leadership, Mavdrones has achieved remarkable success, including winning the 'Best Innovation and Technology in Drone Industry' award from ASSOCHAM. Pradipta is committed to revolutionizing the industry through advanced UAV technology, fostering a culture of excellence and forward-thinking within the organization.
