In the wake of the Indian Air Force’s precision airstrikes on May 10, 2025, that severely crippled multiple Pakistani military airbases, Pakistan has moved to reactivate emergency airstrips located on its national highways. Sources confirm that the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) will conduct revalidation exercises for the M1 and M2 emergency airstrips, situated along the Islamabad-Peshawar and Islamabad-Lahore motorways, later this week. These efforts aim to ensure the country’s preparedness for a potential aerial response after extensive damage to its primary military infrastructure.
The Indian airstrikes, part of Operation Sindoor, targeted key military sites across Pakistan, hitting 11 strategic airbases, including Rafiqui, Murid, Nur Khan, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, Chunian, Pasrur and Arifwala. Satellite imagery revealed extensive damage, including cratered runways, collapsed hangars, and destroyed air defense radars, particularly at Rahim Yar Khan, where a massive crater disrupted the main airstrip. Other sites, including Pasrur, Chunian, and Arifwala, also saw heavy damage to critical radar systems.
One of the most significant targets was the Nur Khan airbase in Chaklala, home to Pakistan’s vital transport squadrons, including C-130 Hercules and IL-78 mid-air refuelers. Its proximity to Islamabad’s Strategic Plans Division, which manages the nation’s nuclear arsenal, heightened concerns following the strike. Despite these fears, Indian Air Marshal AK Bharti later clarified that there were no strikes on nuclear assets in the region.
The Indian airstrikes left more than eight Pakistani airbases incapacitated, sparking widespread panic within Pakistan’s defense establishment. In response, Pakistan is turning to its contingency plans by reactivating the M1 and M2 emergency airstrips, designed for use in times of crises. However, these highways were not spared during the attacks, with significant damage to key motorways.
The strikes have sent shockwaves through Pakistan’s leadership, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reportedly convening a meeting of the National Command Authority—the country’s top nuclear decision-making body—on the same day, though Islamabad later denied such claims. Indian officials, on the other hand, have emphasized that these strikes were a clear signal of India’s operational readiness and its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.
As Pakistan scrambles to restore its air capabilities through emergency infrastructure, the regional security landscape remains tense, with both nations on high alert.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Adampur Air Base on May 10, 2025, has drawn renewed national attention to one of India’s most significant air force stations. Located in Punjab, Adampur Air Base has long served as a crucial pillar in India’s air defence network, particularly in safeguarding the country’s northwestern front. As India accelerates its military modernization and regional security challenges evolve, the strategic relevance of this base continues to grow. This article delves into the military, strategic, and political significance of the Adampur Air Base, and examines why it remains a cornerstone of India’s defence infrastructure.
Established in the early 1950s, Adampur Air Base is the second largest air force station of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and holds a prominent place in the country’s military aviation history. Situated near Jalandhar in Punjab, and just about 100 km from the India-Pakistan border, Adampur has long served as a frontline defence outpost, especially during the Indo-Pakistani wars of 1965 and 1971.
Adampur Air Base Coordinates
Early Establishment and Development
The base was initially formed on March 16, 1950, as No. 305 Wing, and was later redesignated as No. 8 Wing in 1956. Its creation was part of the IAF’s post-independence expansion strategy aimed at reinforcing India’s air defence and strike capabilities, particularly along the western front. Adampur’s location was chosen strategically, enabling it to house fighter squadrons and support rapid air operations close to the border.
Crucial Role in the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War
Adampur played a pivotal role during the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War. On September 6, 1965, Pakistan launched pre-emptive airstrikes on several Indian airbases, including Adampur, Halwara, and Pathankot. However, the strike on Adampur failed when the Pakistani aircraft retreated before reaching the base.
In a dramatic follow-up, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) attempted an airborne commando raid by dropping 135 Special Services Group (SSG) para-commandos near key airfields, including Adampur. In a remarkable show of civilian bravery, local villagers in the Adampur area captured most of the paratroopers and handed them over to the authorities. Only a handful of the attackers managed to escape back to Pakistan, showcasing both the base’s preparedness and the active involvement of the local community in national defence.
Operationally, Adampur was home to No. 1 Squadron IAF, which carried out significant offensive missions during the war. The squadron struck high-value targets such as the Sargodha Air Base in Pakistan, severely disrupting enemy air operations and logistics. These sorties played a critical role in supporting Indian ground forces and asserting air superiority.
Contribution During the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War
Adampur again emerged as a key player during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. On December 3, 1971, Pakistan launched Operation Chengiz Khan, targeting Indian airbases including Pathankot, which suffered considerable runway damage. In response, Adampur provided essential interceptor cover and remained fully operational throughout the war.
Under the leadership of Air Marshal Randhir Singh, Adampur Air Base maintained high morale and combat readiness. Pilots flew continuous sorties supporting Indian Army advances and striking enemy positions across the western front, including near Lahore. Aircraft such as the Su-7 and MiG-21 flew nearly a third of all sorties on this front, reflecting the base’s intense involvement in the conflict. Its robust training and operational discipline were later credited with helping it avoid major damage or penetration during the war.
Continued Legacy
The 1965 parachute assault by Pakistani commandos remains a defining moment in the base’s history, with local villagers playing a heroic role in safeguarding the airfield.
During the Kargil War in 1999, aircraft operating from Adampur, including Mirage 2000 jets from No. 7 Squadron, struck crucial enemy positions such as Tiger Hill, Muntho Dhalo, and Tololing, highlighting the base’s continued strategic relevance.
In recent decades, Adampur has undergone constant modernization, including proposals in the 2010s to develop it into a commercial airport to improve regional connectivity. This reflects not only its military importance but also its potential civil value.
Adampur Airport
Geostrategic Importance
Adampur Air Base holds exceptional geostrategic value for India, primarily due to its proximity—just about 100 kilometers—to the international border with Pakistan. This location makes it one of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) most critical forward-operating bases, capable of launching rapid responses to any hostile activity or military escalation along the western frontier. Its positioning enables swift surveillance, early threat detection, and immediate deployment of air assets, making it essential for both defensive and offensive operations in a volatile region.
Adampur Air Base is strategically located in Punjab near Jalandhar, at approximately 31.43°N latitude and 75.76°E longitude. Its position places it within close proximity to several other key Indian Air Force (IAF) installations, forming a critical network of defense infrastructure along India’s western front. To the north-northwest, about 70 kilometers away, lies Pathankot Air Force Station, which hosts helicopter squadrons and Apache attack helicopters, serving as a vital base for rotary-wing operations near the border. Approximately 60 kilometers to the south-southeast is Halwara Air Force Station near Ludhiana, home to Su-30MKI fighter squadrons and part of the IAF’s Western Air Command. Around 90 kilometers west of Adampur is Amritsar Air Force Station, located close to the India-Pakistan border, enhancing frontline surveillance and response capabilities. Bathinda Air Force Station, situated about 150 kilometers to the southwest, plays a key role with its deployment of Rafale squadrons. Meanwhile, Chandigarh Air Force Station, around 120 kilometers to the southeast, functions primarily as a hub for transport aircraft and helicopters. Collectively, these bases create a layered and coordinated defense grid, with Adampur centrally positioned to support rapid deployment and joint operational readiness in northern India.
The base also functions as a forward platform for surveillance operations and rapid fighter squadron deployments, and supports missile defence systems. A clear example of its strategic value was the deployment of India’s first S-400 Triumf long-range air defence system at Adampur. With a range of up to 600 km, the S-400 significantly extends the IAF’s ability to monitor and neutralize airborne threats, covering substantial portions of Pakistani airspace. Its integration with other IAF assets enhances layered defence capabilities, positioning Adampur as a powerful node in India’s air defence grid.
A symbolic image of PM Modi standing in front of S-400 in Adampur Air Base.
Operational Capabilities
Adampur Air Base is one of the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) most critical operational hubs, hosting several advanced fighter squadrons, including the Su-30MKI, a premier multirole air superiority aircraft. The presence of these fighters reflects the base’s capability to execute a wide range of missions—ranging from air dominance and interception to deep strike operations—ensuring both strategic flexibility and combat readiness.
The base is equipped with modern radar systems and missile defense infrastructure, which strengthen its ability to monitor, track, and respond to airborne threats in real time. These systems enhance the IAF’s ability to maintain a vigilant defensive posture along India’s sensitive western front, while also supporting rapid mobilization for offensive operations when necessary.
Adampur also features comprehensive maintenance, repair, and logistical support facilities, which ensure the high operational availability of its aircraft and systems. This infrastructure enables sustained sortie generation, allowing the base to support round-the-clock aerial patrols, intercept missions, and coordinated strike operations.
The background shows presence of Sukhoi Su-30MKI
Role In Operation Sindoor
Adampur Air Base played a pivotal role in Operation Sindoor, India’s precision strikes on terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, launched on May 7, 2025. As one of the Indian Air Force’s key forward-deployed bases near the western border, Adampur was instrumental in maintaining air defense readiness and facilitating offensive air operations during the height of the conflict.
Equipped with frontline fighter squadrons such as the MiG-29s, the base was actively involved in launching air-to-ground strikes on identified terror infrastructure across the border. These squadrons ensured India’s ability to strike with accuracy and maintain aerial superiority, even in the face of escalating hostilities.
In response to India’s initial strikes, Pakistan launched a series of missile and drone attacks on May 9 and 10, targeting strategic IAF bases, including Adampur. Thanks to a well-coordinated air defense network and rapid threat detection capabilities, Adampur successfully intercepted these threats, preventing any damage to its runways, aircraft, or infrastructure. This quick and effective defense allowed the IAF to sustain momentum in its operations and preserve its readiness posture throughout the conflict.
Fake Claims By Pakistan
PAF’s Chief Spokesperson had falsely claimed that they had hit the runway, destroyed the S-400 air defense system, and successfully targeted radar systems with drones. Additionally, Pakistan claimed that missiles had destroyed aircraft at the base and that as many as 60 personnel were killed in the strikes. To support these assertions, Pakistan circulated morphed satellite imagery of Adampur, suggesting the base was severely damaged. They also claimed that Adampur was rendered out of action for years.
Here is the video:
However, these allegations were swiftly debunked by India, with satellite imagery and on-ground reports confirming that the base remained fully operational, further strengthened by Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the base, which demonstrated its intact infrastructure and readiness.
Another image circulating now claims to show damage at India's Adampur Airbase due to Pakistan's airstrike, however once reviewed against recent images this too has been doctored & manipulated pic.twitter.com/XaapvE5KbS
Imagery released by a Chinese firm suggests damage at a structure within India's Adampur Airbase – a site targeted by Pakistan, however when cross-referenced with older imagery the damage predates current incidents & is visible in March 2025 as well pic.twitter.com/DVB83Qqgte
PM Modi’s visit and picture in front of S-400 Defence System is symbolic showing how Pakistan does nothing but spreads fake propaganda.
Significane of The Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s surprise visit to Adampur Air Base on May 13, 2025, carried significant symbolism and strategic messaging amidst the ongoing India-Pakistan tensions following Operation Sindoor. The visit emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to national security and served as an important morale booster for the Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel stationed at this crucial frontline base.
During the visit, which lasted nearly an hour, Modi interacted with IAF personnel and senior officers, lauding their courage, determination, and fearlessness. He described the experience of meeting such brave warriors as “very special” and conveyed India’s eternal gratitude to the armed forces for their sacrifices. This reinforced the nation’s commitment to supporting the armed forces in safeguarding India’s sovereignty and security .
The Prime Minister was also briefed on the ongoing security situation, including operational logistics, and the base’s pivotal role in defending against Pakistani missile and drone attacks during the recent conflict. Pakistan had earlier claimed that it had inflicted significant damage on Adampur, including to its S-400 air defense system; however, Indian satellite imagery and the Prime Minister’s visit effectively refuted these claims, proving that the base remained fully operational and intact .
From a strategic standpoint, Modi’s visit was a clear signal to adversaries about India’s military readiness and resolve. It demonstrated that despite provocations, India’s frontline defenses remain robust and ready to respond effectively. Defense experts interpreted the visit as a reaffirmation of India’s “new doctrine”, emphasizing a no-tolerance policy towards terrorism and nuclear blackmail, with a strong focus on decisive retaliation and sustained vigilance .
In a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Armed Forces’ successful execution of Operation Sindoor, at least 17 newborns in Uttar Pradesh’s Kushinagar district have been named ‘Sindoor’. The unique naming trend emerged after India’s retaliatory strike on terrorist bases in Pakistan, carried out in response to the deadly Pahalgam terror attack.
Most of these babies were born on May 9 and 10, just days after the operation, and their names now serve as living reminders of a moment that stirred patriotic fervor across the country. In Kushinagar, a region known for its deep-rooted traditions, the decision to name children ‘Sindoor’ also marked a symbolic break from convention. In many Hindu households in eastern UP, names are typically chosen by the paternal aunt, but the emotion following Operation Sindoor has overruled long-held customs.
“My baby was born on May 9, two days after our brave soldiers avenged the Pahalgam attack. While I empathize with the bereaved families, I also wish to thank the soldiers who guard our borders. So, I named my daughter ‘Sindoor’ as a tribute to them,” said Neha Gupta, one of the mothers who chose the name.
The name ‘Sindoor’, traditionally representing marital commitment among Hindu women, has now taken on broader symbolic meaning. Following the Pahalgam attack that claimed the lives of several soldiers, it is being embraced as a symbol of sacrifice, resilience, and national unity.
Dr R.K. Shahi, principal of Government Medical College (Autonomous) in Kushinagar, confirmed that 17 babies delivered at the hospital were named ‘Sindoor’. “Sindoor has become a symbol of sacrifice and national unity after India’s counter-terror operation in Pakistan,” he said, noting the strong wave of patriotic emotion witnessed in the hospital’s maternity ward.
Local social activist Rajesh Mani explained that the trend reflects a “collective emotion and shared feeling of pride” in the district. “A good number of families in Kushinagar and surrounding districts have a member serving in the armed forces. The naming of these children reflects deep respect for the sacrifices made,” he said.
Archana Shahi from Bhedihari village, who named her daughter ‘Sindoor’, said she had made the decision even before the child’s birth. “Sindoor now stands for courage and resilience. This name is my way of saying thank you to our soldiers,” she said, while her husband, Ajit, added, “We live in safety because of them. This is the least we could do.”
As these newborns begin their lives carrying a name steeped in meaning, their stories reflect a nation’s gratitude and a district’s proud tribute to its defenders.
In a swift and precise counter-terror operation, the Indian Army on Tuesday eliminated three terrorists during Operation Keller in the Shoekal Keller area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district. The operation, launched in the early hours by the Rashtriya Rifles, followed credible intelligence inputs about the presence of armed militants entrenched in the region.
As security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search-and-destroy mission, the terrorists opened fire, triggering an intense exchange. The firefight resulted in the death of all three terrorists, who were described by security officials as high-priority threats involved in multiple acts of violence and radicalization. The operation was ongoing at the time of reporting, with the area being sanitized to rule out the presence of any additional threats or hidden weapon caches.
OPERATION KELLER
On 13 May 2025, based on specific intelligence of a #RashtriyasRifles Unit, about presence of terrorists in general area Shoekal Keller, #Shopian, #IndianArmy launched a search and destroy Operation. During the operation, terrorists opened heavy fire and fierce… pic.twitter.com/KZwIkEGiLF
This tactical success comes at a time of heightened security concerns following Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory airstrike conducted by India on May 7, targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). That operation, hailed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah as a “befitting reply” to cross-border terrorism, was followed by retaliatory shelling from Pakistan, resulting in 12 civilian and one soldier’s death in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district.
The Keller region of Shopian has remained a persistent militant hotspot, with a history of insurgency and frequent encounters. A similar gunfight in the Yarwan forest in 2019 also resulted in the killing of three militants, illustrating the long-standing challenge that security forces continue to face in South Kashmir despite ongoing counterinsurgency operations.
Officials emphasized the importance of sustained operations to prevent militant regrouping and to maintain peace in the Valley. “The elimination of these terrorists is a step toward dismantling the network that threatens regional stability,” said a senior army officer involved in the operation.
Public response has been largely supportive, with citizens and local leaders expressing relief over the Army’s decisive action. However, many remain wary of further escalations, especially given the broader India-Pakistan tensions and the historically fragile situation in Kashmir. The long-standing territorial dispute, marked by wars in 1947-48, 1965, and the 1999 Kargil conflict, continues to fuel the complex security landscape in the region.
Authorities have urged residents to remain alert as follow-up operations continue in Keller and surrounding areas. More details are expected as investigations proceed and identities of the neutralized militants are confirmed.
With Operation Keller, the Indian Army reaffirms its resolve to eliminate terrorism from the Valley, even as geopolitical tensions threaten to further destabilize the region.
In a major counter-terrorism operation, three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists were killed by Indian security forces in Shukroo forest area of Keller in Shopian, South Kashmir, on Tuesday morning. The operation, carried out jointly by the Indian Army and the Jammu & Kashmir Police, marks another successful step in India’s ongoing efforts to combat militancy in the region.
The encounter began in the early hours of the morning, following credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of LeT operatives in the area. Security forces quickly engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, ultimately neutralizing all three militants.
The first terrorist was Shahid Kuttay, classified under Category-A, has been implicated in several high-profile incidents. He was behind the attack on German tourists in April 2024, which resulted in significant media attention. In May 2024, he was also involved in the killing of a BJP Sarpanch, further escalating tensions in the region. Additionally, Kuttay is suspected of being linked to the murder of a TA jawan in February 2025, making him a key figure of interest for security forces.
The second terrorist was Adnan Shafi Dar, listed under Category-C, is known for his involvement in the murder of a non-local labourer in October 2024. His role in this attack has placed him under scrutiny, although he is considered to be a lower-priority target compared to Category-A individuals like Kuttay.
There is also a third terrorist, whose identity is currently being verified. The security agencies are working to confirm details about this individual and their involvement in recent activities.
Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based militant group, has been a persistent threat in Jammu & Kashmir for years, with the aim of integrating the region with Pakistan. The group is notorious for its involvement in several deadly attacks in India, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and is banned by multiple countries, including India, the United States, and the United Nations.
Shopian has long been a hotspot for militant activities, with frequent clashes between security forces and insurgents. In the past, the Indian Army has conducted large-scale operations, such as Operation Sarp Vinash in 2003, to dismantle terrorist networks in the region. This latest encounter is another important success in ongoing operations to reduce militant influence in South Kashmir.
The operation comes amidst increased security measures in Jammu & Kashmir, where Indian forces are actively targeting groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen. The coordinated efforts of the Army and the Jammu & Kashmir Police aim to bring peace and stability to the region, though challenges remain with ongoing militant activity and occasional local unrest.
Further details regarding the operation are awaited as security forces continue their search for potential additional threats in the area. The neutralization of the three terrorists is seen as a significant blow to Lashkar-e-Taiba’s operations in the region, with officials reaffirming their commitment to eradicating terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today visited the Indian Air Force’s Adampur Air Base in Punjab, delivering a strong message of support and encouragement to the nation’s armed forces amid heightened tensions with Pakistan. The visit comes just three days after the Pakistan Air Force launched an airstrike on the base on May 10, 2025—part of a series of attacks that have raised the stakes in the ongoing military standoff.
During his visit, PM Modi was briefed by senior Indian Air Force (IAF) officers on the current state of operational readiness and the challenges posed by recent hostilities. He interacted with air warriors, praising their courage and professionalism, and expressed confidence in the IAF’s ability to safeguard the nation’s skies.
Earlier this morning, I went to AFS Adampur and met our brave air warriors and soldiers. It was a very special experience to be with those who epitomise courage, determination and fearlessness. India is eternally grateful to our armed forces for everything they do for our nation. pic.twitter.com/RYwfBfTrV2
Images from the visit showed the Prime Minister standing alongside IAF personnel in front of a MiG-21 model and a signboard that read, “Why Enemy Pilots Don’t Sleep Well”—a symbolic reference to the combat legacy of the Adampur base. Historically, Adampur has played a pivotal role in conflicts with Pakistan, notably during the 1965 war, and continues to be a key strategic location for India’s northern air defences.
The visit is widely seen as a morale-boosting move following the May 10 attack, in which Pakistani forces used unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) and fighter jets to target Indian bases in Adampur, Udhampur, Pathankot, and Bhuj. Indian air defences responded swiftly, neutralizing most incoming threats. While some damage was reported, military officials emphasized that operational capability remained intact.
Tensions have been rising since the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, carried out by Pakistan-backed militants, which killed 26 civilians. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, striking terrorist infrastructure across Pakistan-administered Kashmir and parts of Punjab. The situation further escalated with Pakistani military activity and hardline rhetoric from Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir.
In his address at the base, PM Modi highlighted the importance of indigenous defence capability, referencing the IAF’s growing reliance on Indian-made aircraft like the Tejas fighter jet. He also acknowledged the legacy of the MiG-21s, which have served India for decades and were famously involved in the 2019 aerial engagement that saw Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shoot down a Pakistani F-16.
A symbolic image showing S-400 behind PM Modi
The Prime Minister’s presence at Adampur sends a clear signal: India stands firmly behind its armed forces and is prepared to respond decisively to any threat, while maintaining its commitment to non-escalation if Pakistan chooses the path of peace. Military and strategic analysts view the visit as both a reassurance to the domestic audience and a message to Pakistan and the international community about India’s resolve.
As tensions persist, India remains vigilant, with its armed forces on high alert and diplomatic channels closely monitoring developments in the region.
Security forces are currently engaged in a fierce gunbattle with four terrorists in the Awneera area of Shopian district, including two confirmed foreign nationals. The operation began early Monday morning following credible intelligence inputs, and remains active as forces work to neutralize the threat.
The encounter comes at a time of heightened security operations across Jammu and Kashmir, especially following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. However, officials have clarified that, as of now, there is no confirmed connection between the Shopian terrorists and the group responsible for the Pahalgam killings.
According to sources, a cordon-and-search operation was launched in the early hours based on specific intelligence. Upon locating the suspects, an exchange of fire ensued. Authorities have refrained from releasing further operational details, citing the need to protect the lives of personnel involved and to maintain tactical advantage during the ongoing mission.
This latest encounter underscores the ongoing threat posed by foreign terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir, despite sustained counter-insurgency efforts since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. The Indian Army and local police forces have conducted extensive operations in recent years, declaring several regions—including Doda and Tral—militancy-free by 2020. However, districts like Shopian remain volatile, often witnessing encounters with militants linked to groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The timing of this encounter, amid the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, has drawn attention. That attack was carried out by The Resistance Front (TRF), a known proxy of LeT, and reportedly involved Pakistani nationals. Investigations revealed logistical support from safe houses in Muzaffarabad and Karachi, and authorities had placed a ₹20 lakh bounty on the identified attackers.
Historically, the insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir has been marked by significant foreign involvement. Between 1989 and 2002, security forces seized over 40,000 weapons and 150,000 explosive devices, much of it originating from cross-border networks. The current presence of foreign terrorists in Shopian again points to Pakistan’s continued role in aiding and abetting terror activities within Indian territory—a key factor in the strained India-Pakistan relationship.
Security forces continue to maintain high alert across the Valley, with reinforcements deployed and civilian movement in the area restricted. The public has been advised to stay away from the operation zone and rely on official communication for updates.
The Shopian encounter serves as a sharp reminder of the persistent insurgency challenge, and of the critical importance of vigilance, coordination, and strategic response in ensuring peace and stability in the region.
India is set to formally brief foreign defence attachés today on the recently concluded Operation Sindoor, a major military operation that involved deep strikes on terror infrastructure inside Pakistani territory. The move is seen as part of India’s effort to consolidate international support and demonstrate the effectiveness of its defence capabilities following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilian lives, including one Nepali national.
The Indian military had launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of May 7, targeting multiple sites linked to terror groups across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation focused on key facilities: Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) stronghold; Markaz Taiba in Muridke, known as the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT); as well as targets in Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bimber.
Indian authorities have identified The Resistance Front (TRF), a LeT proxy, as the group behind the Pahalgam massacre. The strikes during Operation Sindoor were presented as a calibrated response to this act of terrorism, designed to dismantle the infrastructure supporting such outfits.
In today’s closed-door briefing, India is expected to present evidence of the strike outcomes and showcase the performance of indigenous defence systems. Among the highlights will be the Akash Air Defence Missile System, a medium-range surface-to-air missile system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which played a key role in intercepting incoming drones and missiles from Pakistan.
The operation also featured precision strikes using the BrahMos missile, co-developed by India and Russia. Military officials confirmed these missiles were used to target high-value assets and were effective in degrading Pakistan’s military and terror-linked infrastructure.
Addressing the nation on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the success of indigenous technology in modern warfare. “Operation Sindoor has added a new dimension. We have proven our capabilities in deserts, mountains, and modern warfare domains. Our Made in India weapons have demonstrated their credibility to the world,” he said.
The Indian military also confirmed that Turkish-origin drones and Chinese-made PL-15 missiles, used by Pakistan during its retaliatory attempts, were largely neutralized. The Akash system was instrumental in shooting down the Turkish drones, while the PL-15s were intercepted or failed to hit their intended targets.
The upcoming briefing is expected to draw keen attention from international observers, especially regarding the effectiveness of Indian defence assets versus Turkish and Chinese-origin systems used by Pakistan. The defence attachés are anticipated to seek technical clarifications and strategic assessments during the session.
By showcasing its operational capabilities and the success of indigenously developed systems, India aims to reinforce its strategic narrative and assert its preparedness in the face of cross-border threats.
In a rare and notable admission, the Pakistani military has confirmed that 11 of its personnel were killed and 78 others injured in retaliatory strikes carried out by India. The casualties include six soldiers from the Pakistani Army and five from the Air Force. This is the first official acknowledgment by Pakistan of military losses in the current flare-up with India, which intensified following a militant attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir in April 2025.
India’s military response, dubbed Operation Sindoor, began on May 7, targeting alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in areas of Punjab province, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Shakar Garh, and a village near Sialkot. Indian officials said the strikes were aimed at infrastructure linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, which are accused of orchestrating cross-border terrorism and recruiting militants on Pakistani soil.
Pakistan, while denying any involvement in the Kashmir attack, claims that India’s operations caused extensive civilian harm. Earlier statements from Pakistani authorities reported at least 31 civilian deaths and 46 injuries due to Indian strikes, condemning the actions as reckless and inflammatory.
India maintains that its strikes were precision-based and intended solely to eliminate terrorist threats, not to harm civilians. In response, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif emphasized that any counter-response would target only Indian military assets.
The conflict has added fresh strain to the already fraught diplomatic relations between the two nations. In a dramatic move, Pakistan has threatened to suspend participation in the Simla Agreement—a foundational peace accord established after the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. That war concluded with heavy Pakistani losses, including the surrender of 93,000 troops, and Pakistan’s current admission of military casualties is seen as a departure from its historically cautious public disclosures in times of conflict.
With both sides exchanging sharp rhetoric and accusations, the international community remains on alert, urging de-escalation as fears of further conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors loom large.
Amidst a week marked by high military tension and a suspension of hostilities with Pakistan, former Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane delivered a powerful message on the realities of war and the necessity of diplomacy, stating, “War is not your Bollywood movie.”
Speaking at an event organized by the Institute of Cost Accountants of India in Pune on Sunday, General Naravane addressed growing public sentiment questioning the cessation of military action between India and Pakistan. He reminded the audience that while the Armed Forces are always ready to fight if required, diplomacy must remain the first choice.
“War or violence should be the last thing we resort to. Although war may be forced upon us by unwise actors, we should not cheer for it,” Naravane emphasized. “As a military man, I will go to war if ordered, but that will not be my first choice.”
The former Army Chief was referring to the events of the past week, which began with Operation Sindoor—a series of Indian strikes targeting terrorist camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). These were followed by four days of intense cross-border engagements before a suspension of hostilities was announced.
Clarifying the nature of the pause in military activity, General Naravane noted, “It is only a cessation of military operations, not a ceasefire as such. Watch how things unfold in the coming days and weeks.”
He explained that the decision to halt hostilities came after India’s successful demonstration of its military capabilities, which included strikes on terrorist targets and airfields deep inside Pakistani territory. “We showed Pakistan that continuing their path would carry a high cost, which ultimately led their DGMO to reach out to ours to discuss a ceasefire,” he said.
Beyond the strategic rationale, General Naravane highlighted the social costs of war—from civilian casualties in border areas to long-term psychological trauma such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). “No one accounts for the lives lost, the children who grow up without parents, or the generational trauma inflicted on affected communities,” he added.
He also addressed the long-standing debate on military spending, describing defence allocation as a national insurance premium. “A well-prepared military deters aggression. If you are well-equipped, others will think twice before attacking you,” he stated. India’s defence ministry currently accounts for approximately 15% of the national budget.
General Naravane concluded with a broader appeal for national unity and peaceful resolution of conflicts. “We are all equal stakeholders in national security. Differences—whether between countries, states, communities, or even families—must be resolved through dialogue, not violence.”
His remarks serve as a timely reminder of the grave responsibilities carried by military decisions, and the need for a balanced approach that values peace, preparedness, and prudence over impulsive escalation.
