Imagine a situation where the Pathankot Air Force Base had embraced modern security features. Infra-red cameras would've detected the terrorists as they approached. Smart surveillance systems can sense new or lingering objects in the field of vision, identify it as a threat and prioritize what needs to be displayed to the viewer in the control room. Had the terrorists disabled the surveillance system, somehow their presence would've been detected by motion detectors or laser fences and the possible point of breach could've been pinpointed. An Automatic Weapon System piloted by an operator in the control room would have been used to engage and mow down the terrorists before they climbed over. Early detection also gives operators inside the base time to secure high value assets. Thesedays terrorists use army fatigues to avoid detection and infiltrate our installations. Adequate biometric verification systems at check posts and strategic locations could help in such a case. A modern security set up could've dissuaded or neutralized attackers.Adoption of such security technology also accentuates the vulnerability to cyber-attacks and thus a cyber-security element should also be built into the set up.