Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said Operation Sindoor showcased India’s high-impact, short-duration operational capability, underlining the Indian Air Force’s speed, precision and strategic resolve in a rapidly evolving security environment.

Addressing the Air Force Commanders’ Conclave here, he described the IAF as a technologically advanced, operationally agile and future-oriented force, and urged commanders to draw lessons from the operation to remain prepared for emerging challenges.

Emphasising that 21st-century warfare is a contest of ideas, technology and adaptability as much as weapons, he reiterated the government’s commitment to further strengthening the country’s security apparatus.

“India’s high-impact, short-duration operational capability was demonstrated by the Armed Forces during Operation Sindoor,” he said. Praising the courage, speed and precision with which the IAF destroyed the terror camps during the operation, he said that the IAF effectively handled the “irresponsible reaction” from Pakistan after the strikes.

Highlighting the people’s trust in the Armed Forces, especially the air defence capability, he said, “Usually, when enemy attacks, people hide. But, when the Pakistani forces tried to target Indian installations, the people of India remained calm and continued with their daily routines. This is the proof of the trust of every Indian in our operational preparedness”.

Underscoring the importance of thoroughly understanding the enemy’s offensive and defensive capabilities to maintain a decisive advantage, he urged the Commanders to take lessons from Operation Sindoor, and stay vigilant and ready to deal with every future challenge.

Reflecting on the changing nature of warfare, Singh stated that the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Israel-Hamas war, Balakot air strikes and Operation Sindoor are proof that air power has emerged as a decisive force in today’s times.

He stressed that air power is not just a tactical asset, but a strategic instrument, and speed, surprise and shock effect are its inherent characteristics.

“Air power gives any leadership the capability to deliver a clear strategic message to the adversary that every step will be taken to uphold national interests. Through speed, reach, and precision, air power has become an effective tool for aligning the nation’s objectives with military means,” he added.

“21st century warfare is not just a war of weapons. It is a war of ideas, technology, and adaptability. Cyber warfare, Artificial Intelligence, unmanned aerial vehicles, satellite-based surveillance, and space-enabled capabilities are fundamentally changing the future of warfare. Precision-guided weapons, real-time intelligence, and data-driven decision-making are no longer optional; they have become basic requirements for success in modern conflicts. Those nations which master the trinity of technology, strategic vision, and adaptability will move towards global leadership,” he added.

He further went on to state that Sudarshan Chakra, which was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day speech this year, will play a crucial role in protecting national assets in the coming times. He added that the development of indigenous jet engines has become a national mission, and the government is fully committed to achieving this objective.

Describing Operation Sindoor as a shining example of Tri-service synergy, the defence minister underlined the importance of jointness in today’s rapidly changing times. “Jointness among the three Services is crucial as it would further strengthen our security system, and enable us to deal with our adversaries even more effectively,” he said.

Raksha Mantri lauded the IAF for their humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts, both domestically and internationally. “Whether at home or abroad, IAF has consistently provided critical support during natural calamities. Many of the missions were executed in extremely challenging situations which has increased the trust of the people in our air warriors,” he said.