Before dawn on May 7, 2025, India executed ‘Operation Sindoor,’ a historic and precise military operation targeting nine terrorist facilities across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
Launched in retaliation for Pakistan’s cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 lives, this operation showcased India's advanced military capabilities, employing state-of-the-art weaponry to neutralise threats with surgical precision.
SCALP Cruise Missiles: Precision at Long Range
Central to the operation were the SCALP (Storm Shadow) cruise missiles, deployed from Indian Air Force Rafale jets. These long-range, air-launched missiles are designed for deep-strike missions, capable of hitting targets over 250 kilometers away.
Further, these precision guidance systems ensure minimal collateral damage, making them ideal for targeting fortified terrorist infrastructures.
HAMMER Bombs: Striking Hardened Targets
Complementing the SCALP missiles were the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) precision-guided bombs.
These munitions are adept at destroying reinforced structures, such as bunkers and multi-storey buildings used by terrorist organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) as training and logistical centres.
With a range of 50-70 kilometers, depending on launch altitude, HAMMER bombs provide flexibility and accuracy in complex combat scenarios.
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Loitering Munitions: The Eyes and Fists in the Sky
India also employed loitering munitions, colloquially known as ‘kamikaze drones,’ during Operation Sindoor. These unmanned aerial vehicles can hover over target areas, providing real-time surveillance and the capability to strike upon identifying threats.
Coordinated Tri-Service Execution
Operation Sindoor marked a significant milestone as it involved a coordinated effort from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. This tri-service collaboration ensured comprehensive coverage and execution of the mission.
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By leveraging advanced weaponry and coordinated military strategy, India has demonstrated its capability to conduct precise, effective, and restrained military operations against threats emanating from across its borders.