Pakistan’s military conducted two successful airstrikes using an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) against Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) hideouts in the Chiltan mountains of Quetta district, killing between 16 and 20 terrorists, officials confirmed on Wednesday.
According to security sources, the intelligence-based operation targeted key militant sanctuaries where BLA operatives had been regrouping and planning attacks. The strikes destroyed multiple hideouts and ammunition storage points, marking a major setback for the BLA network operating in the region.
Officials said the BLA militants frequently blended in with local populations and later resurfaced to set up road blockades or ambush security convoys. The group also relies on social media propaganda, often filming attacks and posting online to glorify their operations — a new tactic aimed at boosting recruitment and visibility.
Foiled Attack in Bolan District
Two days before the airstrikes, security forces and police foiled a coordinated terrorist assault in Bhag Nari area of Bolan district.
Heavily armed militants attempted to loot the National Bank and launch simultaneous attacks on the Bhag Nari Police Station and City Police Station.
An intense exchange of fire ensued, during which Inspector Lutf Ali Khosa embraced martyrdom, and a police constable sustained injuries. The Levies Station and nearby Tehsil Office were also damaged during the attack.
Security forces swiftly cordoned off the area and launched a clearance operation to track down the fleeing assailants.
Previous BLA Attacks in Balochistan
In July 2025, armed BLA militants carried out a violent attack in Mastung, targeting three banks and the local Tehsil Office. The attackers set vehicles and administrative records ablaze, killing a 16-year-old bystander and injuring eight others.
More recently, on October 27, five Levies personnel and a civilian were injured when a remote-controlled bomb targeted the convoy of Kech Deputy Commissioner (DC) Major (retd) Bashir Barech in Turbat. DC Barech remained unharmed in the incident.
The recent UCAV strikes demonstrate Pakistan’s growing reliance on drone warfare to target insurgent networks in rugged terrains like Chiltan and Bolan. The operations mark a strategic shift toward precision counter-terrorism while minimizing collateral damage.
