Operation Sindoor highlighted India’s decisive air power, says Rajnath Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (December 18, 2025) said that India’s high-impact, short-duration operational capability was clearly demonstrated during Operation Sindoor, underscoring the growing strength of Indian air power in modern warfare.

Addressing the Air Force Commanders’ Conclave in New Delhi, he described the Indian Air Force as a technologically advanced, operationally agile, strategically confident and future-oriented force safeguarding national interests amid a rapidly evolving global order.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh being felicitated by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh during the Indian Air Force Commanders’ Conclave at the Air Force Headquarter, in New Delhi on December 18, 2025. Photo: X/@rajnathsingh via ANI

The Defence Minister praised the courage, speed and precision with which the IAF destroyed terror camps during Operation Sindoor, while also effectively handling Pakistan’s “irresponsible reaction” following the strikes. Highlighting the trust of the people in the armed forces, particularly in India’s air defence capability, he said the calm response of citizens during the attempted attacks on Indian installations reflected strong confidence in operational preparedness. He urged the commanders to draw lessons from Operation Sindoor, stressing the need to thoroughly understand adversaries’ offensive and defensive capabilities to maintain a decisive advantage.

Reflecting on the changing nature of warfare, Mr. Singh said recent conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Balakot air strikes and Operation Sindoor have established air power as a decisive force. He emphasised that air power was not merely a tactical asset but a strategic instrument, characterised by speed, surprise and shock, enabling the leadership to deliver clear strategic messages while aligning military means with national objectives.

Commending the performance of air defence systems and other equipment used during Operation Sindoor, the Defence Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to further strengthening the country’s security apparatus. He noted that 21st Century warfare was increasingly driven by technology and adaptability, with cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, satellite-based surveillance and space-enabled capabilities reshaping future conflicts. Precision-guided weapons, real-time intelligence and data-driven decision-making, he said, had become essential for success.

Expressing confidence in future capabilities, Mr. Singh said the Sudarshan Chakra, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during this year’s Independence Day address, will play a crucial role in protecting national assets. He also reaffirmed that the development of indigenous jet engines has become a national mission.

Highlighting jointness as a force multiplier, the Defence Minister described Operation Sindoor as a shining example of tri-service synergy and stressed that greater integration among the Services was vital for effectively countering future challenges.