Says “Action against terror camps exhibited India’s high-impact”
New Delhi: Asking Air Force commanders to draw lessons from ‘Operation Sindoor’ and remain prepared for future challenges, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that action against the terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK demonstrated India’s high-impact, short-duration operational capability.
Addressing the Indian Air Force Commanders’ Conclave here, Singh said that Indian Air Force plays a crucial role in safeguarding national interests in a dynamic global security landscape. He emphasized the importance of speed and coordination in military operations, referencing the effectiveness of the armed forces during ‘Operation Sindoor’ and the public’s confidence in air defense capabilities amidst threats from Pakistan. Singh stressed the necessity for a thorough understanding of adversaries’ capabilities to maintain an operational advantage, urging commanders to remain vigilant against emerging threats. He noted that recent conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict, have underscored the significance of air power in modern warfare, serving both tactical and strategic purposes. The Defence Minister pointed out that 21st-century warfare is increasingly influenced by technology and adaptability, with cyber operations, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and satellite surveillance becoming vital components. He highlighted the integration of precision weapons and data-driven decision-making into military planning as essential for effective operations. Singh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing India’s security framework, mentioning the Sudarshan Chakra air defense initiative and the national mission for developing indigenous jet engines. Collaboration with private industry, start-ups, and MSMEs through initiatives like iDEX and ADITI is also a focus for modernizing the Armed Forces, with significant achievements already noted. He described Operation Sindoor as a testament to the effective coordination among the three military services, emphasizing the importance of joint operations for improved effectiveness. Additionally, Singh acknowledged the Indian Air Force’s contributions to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts both domestically and internationally. The conclave included key military leaders, with Air Chief Marshal A P Singh providing updates on operational readiness.
