The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has for the first time deployed its elite Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) commandos in Jammu and Kashmir, marking a strategic shift in internal security operations in the region. The move comes in the wake of rising militant activity in the dense forests of the Jammu region.
CoBRA, known for its specialised expertise in jungle warfare and counter-insurgency operations against Maoists in the Red Corridor, is being engaged in Kashmir to address the growing challenges of militancy in forested terrains such as Kathua.
The recent deployment is regarded as a historic first for the force, previously confined to countering Left-Wing Extremism in central India.
The decision reflects a recalibration of security measures amid a spike in terrorist activity in Jammu's remote and thickly wooded zones. A prolonged gun battle in Kathua’s forests last week highlighted the terrain's difficulty and the pressing need for a force trained in guerrilla tactics.
“Their expertise in jungle warfare, along with the integration of elite forces from different branches of the military, creates a formidable, specialised force designed to tackle the unique challenges posed by the militant insurgency in the region. This new strategy promises to be a critical asset in securing the forests of Jammu and Kashmir from the growing threat of militancy," a senior CRPF official remarked.
The CRPF's Director General, Gyanendra Pratap Singh, officially announced CoBRA’s deployment during the force’s 86th Raising Day celebrations. Union Home Minister Amit Shah, meanwhile, confirmed plans to raise a new CoBRA unit exclusively for operations in Jammu and Kashmir.
Alongside CoBRA, the deployment of other elite forces has reinforced the multi-layered counter-insurgency structure in the region.
While the Navy’s MARCOS operate in riverine zones such as Wular Lake and the Jhelum, NSG commandos are engaged for urban counter-terror operations. The Army’s Para SF operate in high-altitude and LoC sectors.
Key facts about CoBRA's historic deployment in Jammu and Kashmir
-
First operational deployment in Kashmir
CoBRA’s deployment marks its first-ever active engagement in Jammu and Kashmir since its inception in 2008. The unit had thus far been limited to combating Maoists in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra.
-
Origins in the Red Corridor
Originally raised to counter insurgency in India’s Maoist-affected zones, CoBRA developed formidable capabilities in navigating dense forests and mountainous terrain—skills now being repurposed for Kashmir.
-
Spike in militancy in Jammu’s forests
The increase in militant activity across the rugged forested stretches of Jammu has prompted the redeployment of jungle warfare specialists trained for such hostile terrain.
-
Topographical similarities with Maoist zones
Kashmir’s forested zones present similar challenges to those of the Red Corridor. This resemblance in terrain has prompted security planners to repurpose CoBRA’s jungle warfare training to this new frontier.
-
Announcement during CRPF Raising Day
DG CRPF Gyanendra Pratap Singh and Union Home Minister Amit Shah publicly confirmed the deployment and future plans for a region-specific CoBRA unit.
-
Rigorous training regime
CoBRA commandos undergo advanced training in guerrilla warfare, ambush tactics, jungle survival, IED neutralisation, and high-altitude operations. Training is conducted at Belgaum in Karnataka and the CIJW School in Mizoram.
-
Equipped with advanced weaponry
Armed with INSAS, AK-47s, Tavor X-95s, sniper rifles, and grenade launchers, CoBRA personnel also use GPS, night vision devices, satellite comms, and lightweight tactical kits designed for stealth movement.
-
Integration with other elite forces
CoBRA’s entry into Kashmir is part of a coordinated strategy with other special units including MARCOS, NSG, and Para SF, offering a comprehensive response across riverine, forest, and urban terrains.
Follow us
