India’s Air Force executed Operation Sindoor with precision, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK, minimizing civilian damage. The operation, a response to the Pahalgam attack, showcased India’s robust air defense capabilities.
By Our Defence Correspondent
New Delhi: On May 7, the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, a meticulously planned strike against nine terrorist sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Air Marshal AK Bharti, Director General Air Operations, detailed the operation’s success during a press briefing on Monday, emphasizing that the strikes were a direct response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The operation targeted terrorist infrastructure while avoiding civilian and military collateral damage, despite Pakistani military intervention. A video showcased the destruction of Pakistani ordnance, underscoring the precision of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Precision Amid Challenges
The operation faced interference from the Pakistani military, which chose to back terrorist networks. Air Marshal Bharti clarified that India’s fight was solely against terrorists, not Pakistan’s military, and any losses incurred by Pakistan were their responsibility. The IAF’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) played a pivotal role in coordinating a layered air defense (AD) system, thwarting multiple waves of Pakistani drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This robust AD environment, comprising assets from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, included advanced sensors, weapon systems, and indigenously developed counter-UAV technologies, ensuring minimal damage to civilian infrastructure.
Key Achievements of the Indian Air Force in Operation Sindoor
- Targeted Nine Terrorist Sites: Successfully struck terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK with precision.
- Minimized Collateral Damage: Avoided civilian and military infrastructure damage despite Pakistani intervention.
- Thwarted Drone Attacks: Neutralized multiple waves of Pakistani drones and UAVs using advanced AD systems.
- Intercepted Advanced Missiles: Successfully intercepted a Chinese-origin PL-15 missile and recovered its debris.
- Showcased Indigenous Technology: Leveraged Akash system and counter-UAV technologies for effective defense.
- Coordinated Unified Defense: Utilized IACCS for seamless Army, Navy, and Air Force collaboration.
Indigenous Defense Excellence
India’s air defense capabilities shone brightly, with the interception of a Chinese-origin PL-15 missile and the recovery of its debris. Long-range rockets, loitering munitions, and other unmanned aerial systems deployed by Pakistan were also neutralized. The Akash system, among other indigenous technologies, proved its mettle. Bharti attributed this success to a decade of consistent budgetary support from the Government of India, which enabled the development of advanced systems. The synergy of well-trained personnel and cutting-edge technology created an impenetrable defense network, showcasing India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
A Unified Effort
The operation highlighted the seamless coordination among India’s armed forces. The IACCS, coupled with multilayered sensors and counter-UAV systems, ensured a robust response to Pakistan’s provocations. Director General Military Operations Lieutenant General Rajeev Ghai and Director General Naval Operations Vice Admiral A N Pramod joined Bharti at the briefing, reinforcing the unified approach of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The success of Operation Sindoor not only neutralized terrorist threats but also sent a strong message about India’s resolve and technological prowess in safeguarding its sovereignty.
Operation Sindoor stands as a testament to India’s military precision and technological strength. The IAF’s success in neutralizing terror targets while thwarting Pakistani aggression reaffirms India’s commitment to national security.