Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that Operation Sindoor demonstrated India’s high-impact, short-duration operational capability, underlining the effectiveness of the Armed Forces in delivering swift and decisive responses to emerging threats. He made these remarks while addressing the Air Force Commanders’ Conclave in New Delhi.
Describing the Indian Air Force (IAF) as a “technologically advanced, operationally agile, strategically confident and future-oriented force”, the Defence Minister said the IAF continues to safeguard national interests amid a rapidly evolving global security environment.
Praise for IAF’s Precision and Preparedness
Shri Rajnath Singh lauded the courage, speed and precision with which the IAF neutralised terror camps during Operation Sindoor and effectively managed the “irresponsible reaction” from Pakistan following the strikes. Highlighting public confidence in India’s defence preparedness, especially air defence systems, he said the calm response of citizens during attempted attacks on Indian installations reflected the nation’s trust in the Armed Forces.
“Usually, when the enemy attacks, people hide. But when Pakistani forces attempted to target Indian installations, the people of India remained calm and carried on with their daily lives. This shows the confidence of every Indian in our operational preparedness,” he said.
The Raksha Mantri urged commanders to draw lessons from Operation Sindoor, thoroughly understand adversaries’ offensive and defensive capabilities, and remain vigilant to counter future challenges.
Air Power as a Strategic Instrument
Reflecting on modern conflicts such as the Russia–Ukraine war, Israel–Hamas conflict, Balakot air strikes, and Operation Sindoor, Shri Rajnath Singh said these events clearly establish air power as a decisive force in contemporary warfare.
“Air power is not merely a tactical asset but a strategic instrument. Speed, surprise and shock effect are its inherent strengths. It enables leadership to send a clear strategic message that national interests will be protected at all costs,” he said.
21st Century Warfare: Technology, Ideas and Adaptability
The Defence Minister emphasised that 21st century warfare extends beyond weapons, encompassing ideas, technology and adaptability. He highlighted the growing importance of cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial systems, satellite-based surveillance and space-enabled capabilities, noting that precision-guided weapons, real-time intelligence and data-driven decision-making are now essential for success in modern conflicts.
He reiterated the Government’s commitment to further strengthening the national security apparatus, adding that nations mastering the trinity of technology, strategic vision and adaptability would emerge as global leaders.
Focus on Indigenous Capability and Jointness
Shri Rajnath Singh expressed confidence that ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, announced by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi during his Independence Day address, will play a key role in protecting national assets. He also termed the development of indigenous jet engines a national mission and reaffirmed the Government’s full commitment to achieving it.
Highlighting defence modernisation efforts, he said the Government is working closely with the private sector, start-ups and MSMEs through initiatives such as iDEX and ADITI. As of November 2025, 672 winners have emerged from 565 iDEX challenges, including 96 winners from 77 IAF-related challenges, reflecting growing youth participation in defence innovation.
Tri-Service Synergy and HADR Efforts
Calling Operation Sindoor a shining example of tri-service synergy, the Raksha Mantri stressed the importance of jointness among the three Services to enhance national security and counter adversaries more effectively.
He also lauded the IAF’s consistent role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, both within India and abroad, noting that such missions have further strengthened public trust in the air warriors.
Senior Leadership Participation
The conclave was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and senior IAF commanders. Upon arrival, Shri Rajnath Singh was received by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh and briefed on the IAF’s operational readiness.
The Air Force Commanders’ Conclave serves as a key strategic forum to deliberate on operational priorities, emerging challenges and Aatmanirbharta in defence capabilities, guiding the IAF towards sustained excellence and future readiness.
