Are We Prepared for the Next Battle? Defence Ministry Emphasizes Combat Readiness for Future Operations

Synopsis
As tensions escalate, Air Marshal A.K. Bharti assures that India is fully prepared for any potential conflict. Insights from 'Operation Sindoor' reveal a commitment to combat readiness and advanced defensive measures against threats. This article delves into the strategies and implications for India's national security.
Key Takeaways
- India is prepared for potential conflicts.
- Technological advancements play a critical role in national defense.
- Operation Sindoor highlighted India's strategic capabilities.
- Multi-layered air defense systems are essential for thwarting attacks.
- Addressing terrorism remains a priority for Indian forces.
New Delhi, May 12 (NationPress) If India faces a new conflict, our armed forces are fully prepared, stated Air Marshal A.K. Bharti on Monday, highlighting key insights from 'Operation Sindoor' and our combat readiness for upcoming operations.
“The subsequent conflict will be unlike the current one as it resembles a cat-and-mouse game, necessitating that we stay ahead,” remarked Air Marshal A.K. Bharti on Monday.
During a press briefing on 'Operation Sindoor', Air Marshal Bharti emphasized that this engagement differed from earlier ones, but “we were ready” and “we were trained and equipped for it.”
“With continuous technological advancements occurring, both we and our adversaries are adapting. Nevertheless, we are prepared for future engagements,” he affirmed.
He also quoted a couplet from Ram Charit Manas to signify India’s intentional escalation as a stern warning to Pakistan.
The couplet 'Bhay bin hoye na preet (there is no love without fear)' underscores the significance of fear in strengthening relationships built on respect.
Earlier, Director General of Military Operations Rajiv Ghai stated that the multi-layered counter-drone and air defense grid acted as a decisive shield, thwarting all Pakistani air assaults during 'Operation Sindoor' on the nights of May 9 and 10.
The Defence official indicated that an air attack was anticipated, leading to the implementation of a multi-layered counter-drone and air defense system.
Explaining the rationale behind 'Operation Sindoor', DGMO Ghai mentioned that Pakistan's actions following the Pahalgam terror attack necessitated a strong response.
Air Marshal Bharti criticized the Pakistani military for misinterpreting India’s intentions to limit its offensive against terrorism.
“Our battle was against terrorism, and on May 7 we targeted only terror hubs, but the Pakistani Army misinterpreted it as an act of aggression by supporting terrorists,” he stated.
He described the integrated air defense as an impregnable shield that successfully repelled all attempts by Pakistani forces, including Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles, to breach Indian airspace.
“The performance of our proven older systems was commendable, alongside the Akash system,” he added.
The media briefing included a video inspired by a poem from Ramdhari Singh Dinkar and slides that showcased the destroyed PL-15 E missiles and drones downed using laser technology and other electronic warfare measures.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting with top officials, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and NSA Ajit Doval.
Tensions escalated after terrorists backed by Pakistan killed 25 tourists and a local pony operator in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22. India retaliated with airstrikes on nine terror bases in Pakistan on May 7, resulting in the deaths of over 100 terrorists.
In response, the Pakistani Army engaged in heavy shelling on forward Indian villages and cities, launching drones and missiles that were effectively intercepted by Indian armed forces.
Following the drone assault, the IAF executed a significant 90-minute operation targeting 11 airbases crucial to Pakistan. A ceasefire understanding with Pakistan was reached on Saturday afternoon.