On May 7, 2025, India launched Operation SINDOOR in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 civilian lives. This tri-services operation showcased India’s military precision and strategic synergy across the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. Targeting nine major terror camps across the Line of Control and inside Pakistan, the operation demonstrated operational ethics with minimal collateral damage, reinforcing India’s commitment to counter-terrorism and national security.
Precision Strikes and Air Defence
The Indian Air Force (IAF) played a pivotal role, executing precision strikes on targets like Nur Khan Air Base and Rahimyar Khan Air Base. The IAF’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) enabled real-time coordination, neutralizing Pakistan’s retaliatory drone and UCAV attacks. Indigenously developed Akash missile systems, alongside Pechora and OSA-AK platforms, formed a layered defence grid, protecting Indian airspace. Dr. Jitendra Singh, Union Minister, hailed Operation SINDOOR as a triumph of indigenous innovation on May 18, 2025.
Army’s Robust Defence and Offence
The Indian Army showcased defensive and offensive prowess, countering drone waves and loitering munitions with systems like MANPADS, LLAD guns, and long-range SAMs. Working in tandem with the IAF, the Army ensured the security of military and civilian infrastructure. The Border Security Force (BSF) thwarted a major infiltration attempt in Samba, Jammu and Kashmir, neutralizing two infiltrators and recovering arms and ammunition, underscoring its vigilance.
Navy’s Maritime Dominance
The Indian Navy asserted maritime dominance through its Carrier Battle Group (CBG), equipped with MiG-29K jets and early warning helicopters. Operating along the Makran coast, the CBG maintained a robust air defence shield, preventing hostile incursions. Naval pilots conducted round-the-clock sorties, bottling up Pakistani air elements and validating India’s anti-missile and anti-aircraft capabilities.
Government-Led Coordination Efforts
Operation SINDOOR was supported by government-led reforms enhancing tri-services integration: - Chief of Defence Staff (CDS): Established on December 24, 2019, the CDS promotes jointness in procurement, training, and operations. - Integrated Theatre Commands (ITCs): Reforms to unify forces based on geography and function, enhancing multi-domain operations. - Department of Military Affairs (DMA): Created in 2020 to optimize resources and foster integration. - Inter-Services Organisations Act, 2023: Empowers tri-service commanders for unified discipline and faster decision-making. - Joint Logistics Nodes (JLNs): Operational since 2021 in Mumbai, Guwahati, and Port Blair for logistics integration.
| Initiative | Established | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chief of Defence Staff | December 24, 2019 | Promotes jointness in tri-services |
| Integrated Theatre Commands | Ongoing | Unifies forces for multi-domain operations |
| Joint Logistics Nodes | 2021 | Integrates logistics across services |
Joint Training and Exercises
Technology and Reforms
Key Highlights of Operation SINDOOR
- Launched on May 7, 2025, targeting nine terror camps post-Pahalgam attack.
- Showcased tri-services synergy across Army, Air Force, and Navy.
- Neutralized Pakistan’s drone attacks using Akash missiles and IACCS.
- Supported by reforms like CDS (2019), DMA (2020), and JLN (2021).
- Reinforced India’s counter-terrorism resolve and regional dominance.