Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has brought to light Bangladesh’s own strategic vulnerabilities, highlighting two critical geographic corridors that could face disruption under regional conflict scenarios. His statement, made on May 25, comes amid rising tensions surrounding India’s Siliguri Corridor and recent moves by China in Bangladesh.
Sarma identified two narrow Bangladeshi corridors that resemble the strategic importance of India’s Siliguri Corridor. The first is the 80 km-wide North Bangladesh Corridor, which runs from Dakhin Dinajpur to South West Garo Hills and connects the Rangpur division to the rest of the country. The second is the 28 km Chittagong Corridor, linking South Tripura in India to the Bay of Bengal, providing the only land route between Chittagong, Bangladesh’s commercial hub, and Dhaka, the national capital.
To those who habitually threaten India on the “Chicken Neck Corridor”, should note these facts as well:
1️⃣ Bangladesh has two of its own “chicken necks”. Both are far more vulnerable
2️⃣ First is the 80 Km North Bangladesh Corridor- from Dakhin Dinajpur to South West Garo… pic.twitter.com/DzV3lUAOhR
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) May 25, 2025
According to Sarma, “Any disruption here could have significant consequences for Bangladesh.” He argued that while India’s Siliguri Corridor often garners regional attention, the geographical fragility of Bangladesh’s own terrain is often overlooked in strategic discussions.
India’s Siliguri Corridor, a narrow 20–22 km strip in West Bengal, connects the mainland to the Northeastern states and is surrounded by Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh. The corridor has historically been viewed as a strategic vulnerability, especially after the 2017 Doklam standoff, and concerns have intensified following China’s increasing presence in Bangladesh.
Reports of China assisting in reviving a World War II-era airbase in Lalmonirhat, located just 135 km from the Siliguri Corridor, have added to India’s unease. This development followed statements by Bangladesh’s interim Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, who during a visit to China, described India’s Northeast as “landlocked” and referred to Bangladesh as the “only guardian of the ocean” for India, Nepal, and Bhutan. His call for greater Chinese investment has further strained India-Bangladesh ties.
Sarma’s remarks came hours after a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, signaling coordination at the highest levels of government. His comments align with India’s strategic shift to reduce reliance on the Siliguri Corridor, with new initiatives including alternative railway lines through Nepal and Bangladesh. Among these is a proposed link from Jogbani in Bihar to Biratnagar in Nepal, and onward to New Mal Junction in West Bengal, along with multiple gauge conversion projects in Bangladesh.
Indian military leaders have reiterated the importance of safeguarding the Siliguri Corridor. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi recently emphasized that the area is fortified and any threat would trigger a strong military response. The Indian Army maintains rapid deployment capabilities in the region, particularly from West Bengal, Sikkim, and the Northeast.
Sarma’s statement has sparked discussion among analysts, with some viewing it as a strategic signal to Bangladesh about mutual geographic vulnerabilities. Others, however, caution that such public messaging could further strain diplomatic ties at a time when Bangladesh is facing economic instability and political transition under an interim government.
As China expands its footprint in South Asia, Sarma’s remarks underscore the shifting geopolitical dynamics and the strategic value of geography in shaping regional power equations. With both India and Bangladesh navigating complex relations amid external pressures, the focus on chokepoints and corridors is likely to remain central to South Asia’s security calculus.
In a major breakthrough, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel in Delhi for allegedly spying for Pakistan Intelligence Officers (PIOs). The accused, identified as Moti Ram Jat, was apprehended on May 21, 2025, following a detailed investigation that revealed his involvement in sharing sensitive national security information with foreign handlers since 2023.
The arrest comes in the wake of heightened national security measures after the recent Pahalgam terror attack. According to official sources, Jat had been transmitting classified data to Pakistan-based intelligence operatives and receiving monetary compensation through indirect channels. The arrest marks a significant development in India’s ongoing counter-espionage operations and raises serious concerns about insider threats within security forces.
Following his arrest, Jat was presented before a special court at Patiala House Courts, where Special Judge Chanderjit Singh remanded him to NIA custody until June 6, 2025. The judge noted the severe implications of the charges, stating that such acts “affect national security as well as the lives of those visiting India and Indian citizens.”
Jat’s arrest is part of a broader NIA-led crackdown on espionage networks operating within India. Earlier in May 2025, several individuals across Haryana, Punjab, and Uttar Pradesh were arrested for allegedly leaking military and strategic information to Pakistani agents. This includes a well-known travel vlogger, an Indian Air Force corporal, and others with links to sensitive defense installations like Palam Air Force Base and the CGO Complex in Delhi.
The NIA is currently expanding its investigation to uncover the full scope of the espionage ring, identify other possible collaborators, and determine the extent of the information that has been compromised. Officials emphasize that such insider threats represent a growing challenge to national security, especially as Pakistan’s intelligence agencies continue to target Indian defense personnel through coercion, honeytraps, and digital infiltration.
The arrest of Moti Ram Jat highlights the urgent need for stricter internal surveillance, intelligence sharing, and cybersecurity protocols across Indian defense and paramilitary units. It also underscores the critical role of agencies like the NIA in neutralizing threats to India’s sovereignty and ensuring the integrity of its armed forces.
Major Rohit Kadian, an accomplished officer of the Indian Army, has brought immense pride to the nation by winning five medals at the 11th World Masters Games held in Taiwan from May 17 to May 30, 2025. Competing in the 40–45 age category, he earned a gold medal in the 1500m event, officially making him a world champion. He also secured silver medals in the 5000m and 800m races and bronze medals in the 400m and 10km road race.
The World Masters Games, a global sporting event for athletes aged over 30, saw participation from elite competitors, including former Olympians. Major Kadian’s success in this competitive arena reflects his unwavering dedication, athletic talent, and the Indian Army’s continued commitment to promoting excellence in sports. His stellar performance is aligned with the Army’s broader #MissionOlympics initiative, which focuses on grooming world-class athletes to raise India’s global sporting profile.
Major Rohit Kadian, an Indian Army athlete, carved his name into the annals of sporting history with a stellar performance at the 11th World Masters Games held in Taiwan from 17 to 30 May 2025. Competing against some of the… pic.twitter.com/lPEfOYsjZx
This achievement is the latest in a string of successes for Major Kadian. At the 22nd Asian Masters Athletics Championship held in 2023 in New Clark City, Philippines, he won silver medals in the 800m and 4x400m events and a bronze in the 1500m. Earlier in March 2025, he also represented India at the World Masters Athletics Indoor Championship in Florida, USA, cementing his status as one of India’s top-performing masters athletes.
His dedication to athletics is matched by his military career. Despite the rigorous demands of Army life, Major Kadian has set multiple national records in indoor athletics, including the 800m, 1500m, and 3000m events. His achievements are a testament to the discipline, endurance, and resilience ingrained through military training.
The Indian Army’s official social media handles, including ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY, celebrated his achievement with the message, “Major Rohit Kadian Scripts Sporting History… His phenomenal success is a shining example of unwavering dedication and athletic excellence—an inspiration to countless others and a proud moment for the nation.”
Major Kadian’s journey is not only an individual triumph but also a reflection of the Indian Army’s contribution to national sports development. His success echoes the spirit of the Army’s Decade of Transformation and Year of Tech Absorption, underlining a future-ready force that champions both defense and excellence in every field.
Forty girl cadets from the Uttar Pradesh Directorate of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) completed an eight-day forward area tour in the remote Kumaon hills, gaining firsthand exposure to military life, modern combat equipment, and the realities of living in India’s high-altitude border regions.
Organized jointly by Central Command and the UP NCC Directorate, the initiative aimed to cultivate leadership, discipline, and national spirit among the young women, while also encouraging greater female participation in the Indian Armed Forces. The cadets visited several forward bases under the Panchshul Brigade, a strategically vital formation responsible for defending sections of the Line of Actual Control, especially in the wake of heightened tensions with China post-Galwan.
NCC Girl Cadets Visit Forward Areas in #Kumaon, Uttarakhand
40 Girl Cadets of UP NCC Directorate, embarked on eight days forward area tour in remote regions of #Kumaonhills.
During their tour, the cadets engaged directly with soldiers stationed in rugged terrain and extreme weather, learning about daily routines, logistical challenges, and high-altitude combat preparedness. They also got hands-on exposure to state-of-the-art Indian Army weaponry and surveillance systems, showcasing the technological edge employed in modern military operations.
A memorable part of the visit included a stop at Gunji village, one of the key sites under the government’s Vibrant Villages Programme. The cadets interacted with locals and observed the impact of efforts to transform isolated border communities into vibrant tourist destinations through infrastructure development, homestay promotion, and cultural preservation. The initiative, launched in 2023 and completed in April 2024, seeks to revitalize border villages in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh by curbing migration and generating employment.
This immersive experience not only deepened the cadets’ understanding of defense and development dynamics but also promoted broader national goals of women’s empowerment and youth engagement. With women comprising only 3.6% of armed forces personnel as of 2023, such initiatives serve as critical platforms to bridge gender gaps. They align with ongoing reforms, including the 2021 opening of the NDA to women and the induction of 153 female agniveers into the Indian Air Force in March 2024.
The tour was conducted under the supervision of Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, GOC-in-C of Surya Command, who had recently reviewed the Panchshul Brigade’s operational preparedness on May 22. His involvement reflects the Army’s commitment to mentoring future leaders and reinforcing civil-military ties in frontier areas.
Through a blend of military exposure and social engagement, the tour has left a lasting impression on the young cadets, inspiring many to consider careers in the armed forces and take part in nation-building, in keeping with the objectives of the NCC and the national vision of Nari Shakti.
China has revealed its newest advancements in anti-stealth radar technology at the 11th World Radar Expo held in Hefei, Anhui Province. Among the most notable was the debut of the JY-27V radar system, a mobile meter-wave air surveillance platform claimed to be capable of detecting advanced U.S. stealth fighters like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II.
Manufactured by the state-owned China Electronics Technology Group Corporation (CETC), the JY-27V integrates low-frequency operation, a high-power aperture, and advanced intelligent algorithms. Mounted on a military truck, the radar system features a massive active electronically scanned array (AESA) panel and boasts rapid deployment and retraction capability in under ten minutes.
CETC scientists emphasized the radar’s capabilities to detect stealth targets at long ranges and guide precision air defense strikes. Compared to its predecessor, the JY-27A, the JY-27V offers a larger antenna, lower frequency band, and enhanced processing algorithms, which reportedly improve detection range and accuracy against low-observable aircraft.
Meter-wave radars like the JY-27V operate in the 30–300 MHz frequency range with wavelengths of 1–10 meters, making them more effective against stealth aircraft that are optimized to evade detection from higher-frequency microwave radars. This gives such systems a theoretical edge in detecting radar-absorbing materials and unconventional shapes used in fifth-generation fighter jets.
Other advanced systems were also on display. The YLC-8E radar, a successor to the YLC-8B, works in the UHF band and provides three-dimensional surveillance with enhanced anti-stealth features and robust digital phased array scanning. CETC’s SLC-7 radar, a fourth-generation intelligence system, was showcased with capabilities to simultaneously track and engage multiple aerial threats, offering strong anti-jamming and high accuracy performance.
The expo also featured low-altitude surveillance radars like the JY-11 S-band radar, known for its counter-drone utility, and the YLC-12 C-band radar, which can detect slow and highly maneuverable targets. The JYL-1 long-range radar, designed for deployment in remote or extreme terrain, highlighted China’s push for autonomous and mobile radar systems.
Altogether, CETC’s radar lineup at the 2025 expo signals a significant leap in China’s radar and electronic warfare capabilities, particularly in the domain of counter-stealth operations. With rising tensions and evolving aerial threats, the showcase served as both a technological milestone and a strategic message to rivals equipped with stealth assets.
India has revived a long-delayed project to build 12 indigenous mine countermeasure vessels (MCMVs), a crucial step toward strengthening its maritime defences amid growing underwater threats from China and Pakistan. The proposal, estimated at ₹44,000 crore, is set to be presented before the Defence Acquisition Council led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for the “acceptance of necessity” approval.
These specialised warships are designed to detect, track, and destroy underwater mines that can be laid by enemy submarines to block access to harbours, disrupt maritime trade, and damage naval or commercial vessels. The move comes at a time when Chinese nuclear and conventional submarines have been frequently entering the Indian Ocean Region, while Pakistan is rapidly modernising its submarine fleet, with eight Yuan-class submarines being supplied by China.
Currently, the Indian Navy does not possess a single minesweeper, having retired its Karwar-class and Pondicherry-class MCMVs years ago. In the absence of dedicated vessels, the Navy has been relying on clip-on mine countermeasure suites on some ships to fill the operational void. However, experts believe that at least 24 MCMVs are needed to effectively monitor and protect India’s 11,084.5-km coastline, which includes 13 major and over 200 minor ports.
The fresh push for MCMVs follows multiple delays since the project was first initiated in 2005. Goa Shipyard had partnered with South Korean firm Kangnam for construction, but the plan stalled due to procedural and technical hurdles. With the latest revival, the Defence Ministry aims to release an open tender inviting Indian shipyards to submit their techno-commercial bids.
Given the complexity and scale of construction, the first vessel is expected to be delivered only after seven to eight years from the contract signing. Despite the wait, officials see this as a crucial investment to counter potential threats from both state and non-state actors capable of planting cheap yet deadly sea mines.
In its Worldwide Threat Assessment 2025, the United States Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) has stated that India now considers China its “primary adversary,” while viewing Pakistan as an “ancillary” security concern that must be managed rather than feared. This strategic outlook reflects India’s evolving defence posture, especially in light of recent cross-border tensions and growing regional influence.
The report noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s defence priorities are likely to focus on boosting India’s global leadership, enhancing military power, and countering China’s assertiveness. The assessment comes shortly after India conducted precision strikes under Operation Sindoor in retaliation to a terror attack in Pahalgam, underscoring New Delhi’s growing readiness to respond militarily.
According to the DIA, India is advancing bilateral defence partnerships across the Indian Ocean region through military exercises, arms sales, joint training, and intelligence sharing. These efforts are part of a broader plan to increase India’s strategic influence and mitigate Chinese expansionism. India is also expanding its involvement in multilateral groupings such as the Quad, BRICS, ASEAN, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation to project itself as a responsible and active global player.
While India’s attention remains fixed on the China threat, the report pointed out that Pakistan continues its efforts to modernise its military, including the development of battlefield nuclear weapons. The DIA suggests Pakistan is actively acquiring weapons of mass destruction (WMD)-related materials from foreign intermediaries, maintaining its view of India as an “existential” threat.
On the issue of defence procurement, the report observes that India has reduced its reliance on Russian arms but still depends heavily on Russian spare parts to sustain its fleet of tanks and aircraft, many of which are crucial for maintaining readiness against both China and Pakistan. Despite geopolitical shifts, India is expected to maintain its defence and economic ties with Russia through 2025.
The report also highlighted India’s military advancements in 2024, including testing the nuclear-capable Agni-I Prime and Agni-V missiles and commissioning a second nuclear-powered submarine, marking a significant step in strengthening its nuclear triad.
Although a disengagement agreement was reached between India and China in October 2024 for Depsang and Demchok, the DIA noted that these moves have not resolved the underlying border disputes but have contributed to a temporary easing of tensions since the deadly Galwan clash in 2020.
Sunita Jamgade, a resident of Nagpur who had crossed into Pakistan through the Line of Control (LoC) earlier this month, was officially handed over to Indian authorities on Saturday. According to police officials, she was captured by Pakistani forces near Hunderman village in Kargil and returned through a formal handover involving the Pakistan Rangers and the Border Security Force (BSF).
Jamgade, 43, was reported missing on May 14 after she left her village near the LoC, allegedly leaving behind her 12-year-old son. Authorities later confirmed that she had been in contact with Pakistani nationals prior to her disappearance. Officials suspect she may have crossed the border voluntarily, though investigations are still underway to determine whether she was involved in any unlawful activity.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Zone V), Niketan Kadam, confirmed that a police team had been dispatched to Amritsar to escort her back to Nagpur. He stated that a detailed interrogation would follow her return to assess her mental condition and to explore any potential legal implications, including whether any aspect of her actions could be linked to espionage.
Dr S D Singh Jamwal, Director General of Police for Ladakh, had earlier revealed that Jamgade had been showing signs of emotional distress and confusion in the weeks leading to her disappearance. Her family also disclosed that she was mentally ill and undergoing psychiatric treatment in Nagpur. She previously worked as a nurse and was more recently working as a door-to-door garment seller.
A zero FIR was registered by the Amritsar Police, which is expected to be transferred to Kapil Nagar police station in Nagpur, her permanent address. Kadam explained that such cross-border cases are usually resolved through diplomatic and security agency coordination, including flag meetings between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers.
Meanwhile, her son, who had been placed in the care of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) during her absence, will also be reunited with her in Nagpur.
The incident has once again highlighted the sensitive nature of border security and the psychological vulnerabilities of civilians living in conflict-adjacent regions.
“Operation Safed Sagar was a turning point for the Indian Air Force, proving that air power, when used decisively, can change the course of war. The lessons learned continue to shape our doctrine and modernization.” – Former Air Marshal B.S. Dhanoa
On 26 May 1999, the Indian Air Force (IAF) launched Operation Safed Sagar, this was the first large-scale use of air power in the Kashmir region since the 1971 Indo-Pak War. Never before had an air force been tasked with such high-altitude precision operations in rugged mountainous terrain—making it a watershed moment in military aviation history.
This pivotal mission not only changed the war’s outcome but also transformed India’s air power doctrine. Over the last 26 years, the IAF has modernized dramatically to face new challenges like drone warfare, precision strikes, and hybrid threats, making it a future-ready force for India’s defense.
#ThisDayThatYear | 26 May 1999#OpSafedSagar — the Indian Air Force’s codename for its air operations during the KargilWar1999 — was launched in support of ground forces under Operation Vijay. It aimed to flush out Pakistani regulars and intruders who had occupied Indian… pic.twitter.com/CtBJvqRqsx
Operation Safed Sagar, launched in 1999, was a pivotal air campaign initiated in response to the infiltration and occupation of strategic peaks by Pakistani forces in the Kargil sector along the Line of Control (LoC). This operation marked the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) first major combat air operation since the 1971 war and tested its ability to conduct high-altitude warfare under extremely challenging conditions. The terrain in Kargil, with altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet, presented some of the most difficult flying and bombing environments in the world—thin air, rugged mountains, and unpredictable weather made precision targeting and sustained aerial operations extraordinarily complex.
To support the Indian Army’s efforts in evicting entrenched intruders, the IAF deployed key assets such as the Mirage-2000 and MiG series fighter jets for precision bombing and ground-attack missions. These aircraft, equipped with laser-guided bombs, were able to neutralize fortified enemy positions while minimizing collateral damage. Additionally, Mi-17 helicopters played a vital role in troop transportation, casualty evacuation, and logistical support in the inaccessible mountainous terrain. The IAF operated under strict constraints, including a prohibition on crossing the LoC, which required innovative tactics and exceptional coordination with ground forces to achieve maximum impact without escalating the conflict.
Despite the operational difficulties and risks, the IAF demonstrated remarkable precision, adaptability, and bravery. The sacrifices of pilots like Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja and Flight Lieutenant Kambampati Nachiketa stand as poignant reminders of the human cost of the conflict. Squadron Leader Ahuja’s MiG-21 was shot down during a reconnaissance mission, and Flight Lieutenant Nachiketa was lost while executing bombing runs; their valor exemplified the courage and commitment of the IAF personnel involved in the campaign. These losses, while tragic, galvanized the force and underscored the gravity of the mission.
Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja was shot down and martyred during Operation Safed Sagar while conducting a combat mission over enemy-held territory in Kargil.
Flight Lieutenant Nachiketa captured as a prisoner of war by enemy forces.
Operation Safed Sagar proved critical in regaining control over the strategically vital heights in the Kargil sector, which were crucial for ensuring the security of key supply routes and maintaining the territorial integrity of India. The air campaign, in close coordination with ground operations, played a decisive role in turning the tide of the conflict in India’s favor. It highlighted the importance of air power in mountainous warfare and led to significant lessons that shaped future modernization and doctrinal reforms within the IAF. The success of Safed Sagar remains a defining chapter in India’s military history, symbolizing resilience, tactical innovation, and the indomitable spirit of the Indian Air Force.
Post-Kargil Reforms: Modernizing the Indian Air Force
The Kargil conflict exposed critical gaps in India’s air capabilities, intelligence, and joint operations. In response, the Indian Air Force (IAF) undertook comprehensive reforms to bolster its operational readiness and strategic edge.
One major focus was fleet modernization. The induction of the powerful Su-30MKI fighter jets significantly enhanced air combat capabilities, while upgrades to the Mirage-2000 fleet improved precision strike potential and survivability in high-altitude conflict zones.
The Sukhoi Su-30MKI was officially inducted into the Indian Air Force in 2002.
Infrastructure upgrades were another priority. The IAF modernized Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs) in strategic regions such as Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh, enabling rapid deployment and sustained operations in the challenging Himalayan terrain.
An Advance Landing Ground (ALG) is a strategically located airstrip enabling rapid deployment and operations in remote or high-altitude areas.
To overcome coordination challenges revealed during Kargil, the armed forces pushed for greater jointness and integration. This led to improved cooperation among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, eventually culminating in the creation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) position to streamline unified command and operational planning.
General Bipin Rawat was the First CDS of India.
Finally, surveillance and air defense capabilities were strengthened through enhanced radar networks and the integration of space-based monitoring systems. These advancements significantly improved early warning and situational awareness, crucial for timely and effective responses to emerging threats.
From Balakot to Eastern Ladakh: The IAF’s New Era of Air Superiority
The 2019 Balakot air strikes marked a bold and historic doctrinal leap for India’s defense strategy, signaling a significant shift in the country’s approach to cross-border threats. By conducting precision strikes deep across the Line of Control (LoC) into Pakistan-administered territory, the Indian Air Force (IAF) demonstrated not only its operational capability but also its willingness to adopt a more proactive and assertive posture in countering terrorism and hostile actions. This operation was unprecedented in its scale and precision, showcasing the IAF’s enhanced ability to carry out surgical strikes with minimal collateral damage while sending a clear message of deterrence to adversaries. The Balakot strikes underscored the growing confidence and modernization of the IAF, marking a milestone in India’s strategic doctrine by expanding the scope and reach of its air power beyond traditional defensive roles.
The Balakot airstrike was a 2019 Indian Air Force precision strike targeting terrorist camps across the Line of Control in Pakistan in response to the Pulwama attack.
Following this, the IAF’s performance during the prolonged 2020–2023 standoff with China in Eastern Ladakh further highlighted the evolving role of air power in India’s military strategy. The rapid deployment and effective use of advanced aerial platforms such as Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, Apache attack helicopters, and the formidable Su-30MKI fighter jets played a crucial role in bolstering India’s defensive and offensive capabilities in the high-altitude and challenging terrain of Ladakh. These platforms enhanced troop mobility, reconnaissance, and close air support, ensuring that the Indian military maintained a credible deterrent posture during the tense border standoff. The integration of these sophisticated aircraft demonstrated the IAF’s improved operational readiness, enabling swift responses to emerging threats and maintaining sustained pressure on adversaries.
IAF’s performance in Operation Sindoor showcased enhanced capabilities in high-altitude combat, rapid deployment, and the use of advanced drones and precision-guided munitions. Their coordinated efforts with the Army ensured effective neutralization of hostile positions while minimizing collateral damage, demonstrating the IAF’s evolution since Kargil in terms of technology, strategy, and joint operations.
Collectively, these operations emphasize the growing importance of air power as a central pillar of India’s defense strategy. There has been a noticeable increase in aerial patrols along critical borders, ensuring continuous surveillance and rapid reaction capability. Additionally, the IAF has intensified joint exercises with the Indian Army and Navy, enhancing interoperability and fostering a more integrated approach to national security. These developments reflect a broader strategic shift towards leveraging air dominance to secure India’s frontiers, project power, and maintain stability in a complex and evolving security environment. The experience gained from Balakot and the Ladakh standoff continues to shape the IAF’s modernization priorities, operational doctrines, and preparedness for future conflicts.
Rise of Drone Warfare and India’s Indigenous Defense Push
Modern warfare is rapidly evolving, with an increasing reliance on unmanned systems that offer greater precision, endurance, and risk mitigation compared to traditional manned platforms. Recognizing this shift, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has progressively incorporated a range of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) into its operational framework. Currently, the IAF deploys Heron drones for surveillance and reconnaissance missions, which provide critical real-time intelligence across sensitive borders. Additionally, India is in the process of acquiring the advanced MQ-9B Predator drones from the United States, a move that will significantly enhance its long-range strike and intelligence-gathering capabilities.
The Heron (on Left) and MQ-9B (on Right) are advanced reconnaissance and armed drones used by the Indian Air Force for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and precision strike missions.
Alongside these acquisitions, the IAF is also heavily investing in the development of indigenous UAV technology, which aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative aimed at fostering self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Indigenous projects like the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Rustom drone series, the Archer-NG by Bharat Elections Limited, and the Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited are examples of India’s efforts to build a robust and versatile unmanned platform ecosystem. These homegrown systems are designed to complement manned aircraft, offering capabilities such as persistent surveillance, electronic warfare, and precision strikes, while reducing dependence on foreign technology.
Rustom (on Top), Archer-NG (in Middle), and CATS Warrior(at Bottom) are indigenous Indian drones developed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat roles, enhancing the IAF’s autonomous strike and intelligence capabilities.
In Operation Sindoor, drones played a pivotal role in enhancing battlefield intelligence, surveillance, and precision strike capabilities. The Indian Air Force deployed a mix of reconnaissance and armed drones to conduct real-time monitoring of enemy movements, identify strategic targets, and carry out precision attacks with minimal risk to personnel. These unmanned systems provided crucial situational awareness and helped neutralize hostile positions effectively, marking a significant shift toward drone-dominated modern warfare and highlighting the IAF’s growing reliance on indigenous and imported drone technology for future conflicts.
Image Showing Drone Attacks by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, which were Successfully Intercepted by India.
The strategic importance of unmanned systems was underscored by the 2021 drone attack on the Jammu Air Force Station, which served as a wake-up call for the Indian defense establishment. This incident accelerated investments in counter-drone technologies, emphasizing the urgent need for AI-enabled defense systems capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing hostile drones. These advancements are not only crucial for safeguarding critical military infrastructure but also represent a broader shift towards integrating artificial intelligence and automation into India’s defense architecture. By prioritizing indigenous development and cutting-edge countermeasures, the IAF is positioning itself to meet emerging threats effectively while reinforcing the country’s broader goal of defense self-sufficiency.
The Indian Air Force in 2025: Combat-Ready and Future-Focused
Today’s Indian Air Force (IAF) combines a diverse and advanced fleet of aircraft, including the state-of-the-art Rafale fighter jets, the indigenous Tejas Mk1A, and upgraded versions of the Su-30MKI. This modern mix of platforms significantly enhances the IAF’s combat capabilities across a wide range of missions, from air superiority and precision strikes to reconnaissance and close air support.
In addition to cutting-edge aircraft, the IAF has integrated advanced technologies to strengthen its operational edge. AI-powered command and control systems have improved decision-making speed and accuracy, allowing commanders to process complex battlefield information more effectively. Electronic warfare suites provide the IAF with enhanced capabilities to disrupt enemy communications and radar systems, thereby gaining a tactical advantage during engagements. Space-based surveillance assets further augment situational awareness by enabling real-time monitoring of strategic areas, making early warning and threat detection more efficient.
Regular participation in multinational exercises with allied air forces has also played a crucial role in elevating the IAF’s operational capability. These joint exercises foster interoperability, improve tactical coordination, and expose Indian pilots and commanders to diverse combat doctrines and technologies. This collaborative approach not only strengthens bilateral and multilateral defense ties but also ensures that the IAF remains agile and prepared to face complex security challenges alongside its global partners.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Indian Air Power
By 2030, the Indian Air Force (IAF) envisions a transformative leap in its capabilities, driven by cutting-edge technologies and strategic reforms aimed at addressing evolving security challenges in the region. One of the most significant advancements planned is the integration of hypersonic weapons—missiles capable of traveling at speeds greater than five times the speed of sound. These weapons will provide India with a decisive edge by enabling rapid, long-range precision strikes that are extremely difficult to detect or intercept, thereby enhancing deterrence against potential adversaries.
Alongside hypersonic weapons, the IAF is aggressively pursuing the development and deployment of stealth drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), designed with low radar visibility and advanced autonomous capabilities, will revolutionize intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and strike missions. Stealth drones will be able to penetrate deep into enemy airspace with minimal risk of detection, gathering critical real-time intelligence or executing precision attacks while reducing the exposure of human pilots to danger. This shift towards unmanned and semi-autonomous platforms reflects the IAF’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to maintain air superiority in increasingly complex and contested environments.
In parallel, the expansion of India’s space warfare capabilities is another pillar of the IAF’s future strategy. Space is rapidly becoming a contested domain, with adversaries investing heavily in anti-satellite weapons, space-based sensors, and cyber capabilities targeting space infrastructure. Recognizing this, the IAF is working to develop resilient space-based surveillance, communication, and navigation systems that will ensure uninterrupted command and control of military assets. Enhanced space capabilities will also enable early warning systems and bolster India’s ability to monitor threats across its vast borders, adding a vital layer to its multi-domain defense posture.
A crucial organizational reform supporting these technological advances is the ongoing establishment of joint theatre commands. These commands are designed to integrate the Army, Navy, and Air Force under unified leadership for specific geographic or operational theatres. Such integration will allow for seamless coordination and faster decision-making across the services, thereby maximizing the effectiveness of India’s military response to multi-dimensional threats. This jointness is particularly important given the complex security environment posed by China’s growing military assertiveness along the northern borders and Pakistan’s persistent cross-border challenges. By operating under a unified command structure, the armed forces will be better positioned to execute coordinated operations that leverage the unique strengths of each service.
Looking ahead, air power will continue to be a cornerstone of India’s national security strategy, but its role will evolve far beyond traditional air superiority and ground support missions. The IAF is preparing to operate effectively across land, air, and space domains, creating a truly integrated defense network capable of addressing threats that are increasingly hybrid, multi-domain, and technology-driven. This comprehensive approach, combining advanced weapons systems, unmanned technologies, space capabilities, and joint operational doctrines, will ensure that India maintains a robust deterrence posture and a decisive edge in safeguarding its sovereignty and strategic interests well into the coming decades.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Operation Safed Sagar
Operation Safed Sagar was far more than a mere battle; it represented a pivotal moment and a powerful catalyst that fundamentally reshaped India’s air warfare doctrine. The challenges faced during the Kargil conflict exposed critical gaps in high-altitude combat, precision targeting, and joint operations, compelling the Indian Air Force (IAF) to undergo rapid transformation and modernization. This operation became a defining chapter that not only tested the valor and skill of the IAF’s pilots and personnel but also set the stage for a broader strategic evolution in how air power would be envisioned and employed in India’s defense framework.
From those early days of relying heavily on manned fighter jets such as the Mirage-2000 and MiG fighters operating under severe constraints, the IAF’s journey has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of technological innovation. The lessons learned from Safed Sagar spurred investments in advanced aircraft, improved surveillance and reconnaissance systems, and the integration of cutting-edge weapons technology. Over the years, this evolutionary process has propelled the IAF into the era of AI-driven drone dominance by 2025, where unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with sophisticated autonomous capabilities now play a central role in intelligence gathering, precision strikes, and electronic warfare.
This legacy of innovation and transformation continues to guide the IAF as it confronts an increasingly complex security environment characterized by rapid technological advancements and multifaceted threats. The force’s commitment to securing India’s skies has only grown stronger, driven by a vision that combines traditional aerial combat strengths with emerging domains such as space warfare, cyber operations, and artificial intelligence. The spirit of Operation Safed Sagar—defined by courage, sacrifice, and strategic foresight—remains embedded in the ethos of the IAF, inspiring every pilot, engineer, and strategist to push the boundaries of what is possible in defense of the nation.
In essence, Operation Safed Sagar laid the foundation for a modern, agile, and future-ready air force that embraces innovation while honoring its rich heritage. This journey from the rugged mountains of Kargil to the sophisticated battlefields of the 21st century exemplifies the IAF’s unwavering dedication to adapting and evolving in order to protect India’s sovereignty and maintain peace and stability in a rapidly changing world. The operation’s enduring impact is a testament to the IAF’s ability to learn from history, harness new technologies, and remain a formidable guardian of the nation’s skies for generations to come.
In a major step towards enhancing India’s border security and combat readiness, the Indian Army’s Spear Corps, in close coordination with the Indian Air Force (IAF), has successfully inducted advanced high-mobility vehicles in forward areas. This strategic operation is aimed at improving rapid deployment, logistical support, and mobility in challenging terrains, strengthening India’s defense infrastructure along sensitive border zones.
The newly deployed mobility vehicles are specially designed to perform in extreme weather and rugged landscapes, ensuring quick movement of troops and equipment in high-altitude and remote regions. This initiative is part of India’s ongoing military modernization efforts, focusing on operational efficiency and integrated defense capabilities.
— SpearCorps.IndianArmy (@Spearcorps) May 25, 2025
Defense sources highlight that the collaboration between the Army and the IAF demonstrates a joint-force approach to national security. By combining aerial support with ground-based mobility assets, the forces are now better equipped to respond swiftly to any emerging threats or situations along the borders.
This development comes amid an evolving security landscape in the region. The induction of these high-performance vehicles is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Army’s tactical advantage and preparedness in forward areas. It also reaffirms the government’s commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty through technological advancement and strategic military planning.
With a strong focus on mobility, protection, and synergy between defense branches, India continues to build a modern and resilient military force capable of meeting future challenges with speed and precision.
