Launched in early May 2025 in response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack, Operation Sindoor was a decisive aerial campaign targeting deep-seated terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The Indian Air Force executed precision strikes on terror group headquarters in Muridke (Lashkar-e-Taiba) and Bahawalpur (Jaish-e-Mohammed), along with key Pakistan military installations.
Requiring meticulous planning and strategic accuracy, these operations showcased the IAF’s operational strength and readiness. In aerial engagements from May 7 to May 10, the IAF not only neutralized terror assets but also shot down at least six Pakistani aircraft, including five fighters and one large airborne surveillance platform—a feat described by Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh as the largest-ever recorded surface-to-air kill by India.
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The Honoured Air Warriors
On August 14, 2025, the Indian government awarded the Vir Chakra, India’s third-highest wartime gallantry medal, to nine IAF officers for their courage and skill during Operation Sindoor.
Awardees
- GP Capt Ranjeet Singh Sidhu
- GP Capt Manish Arora, SC
- GP Capt Animesh Patni
- GP Capt Kunal Kalra
- Wg Cdr Joy Chandra
- Sqn Ldr Sarthak Kumar
- Sqn Ldr Siddant Singh
- Sqn Ldr Rizwan Malik
- Flt Lt Aarshever Singh Thakur
Significance of the Vir Chakra
Established in 1950 (effective from 1947), the Vir Chakra is awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy, whether on land, at sea, or in the air. It ranks just below the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra in wartime honors.
Awarding this prestigious medal to nine officers in a single operation underscores their extraordinary bravery, precision, and leadership. Their actions directly contributed to degrading terror infrastructure, blunting imminent threats, and compelling Pakistan to halt hostilities.
Legacy and Broader Impact
- Strategic Message – The successful execution of Operation Sindoor sent a strong signal of India’s ability to project air power deep into enemy territory with precision and resolve.
- Gallantry Recognized – The awards highlight individual valor and reinforce the IAF’s mandate to act decisively in safeguarding national security.
- Inspirational Leadership – These pilots embody the IAF ethos of courage under fire, precision in execution, and unwavering commitment to duty.
The awarding of the Vir Chakra to these nine fighter pilots commemorates both their individual heroism and the collective triumph of Operation Sindoor. Their mission, executed with surgical precision and unwavering bravery, disrupted terror networks and strengthened India’s aerial deterrence.
