Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, the former Director General of Air Operations, disclosed that during Operation Sindoor, Indian forces took down 13 Pakistani aircraft and 11 airfields. The operation, which marked its anniversary in Jaipur, also targeted nine terrorist hideouts in Pakistan and PoK without causing harm to Indian infrastructure. Bharti highlighted that the armed forces had full operational freedom and collaborated closely across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Addressing concerns about the decision to halt hostilities, Bharti acknowledged the frustrations of the Indian populace, particularly the youth, due to past encounters with Pakistan. He clarified that Operation Sindoor was solely aimed at terrorist elements and their support systems, ensuring minimal collateral damage. Bharti emphasized that the operation transitioned into self-defense when Pakistan aligned with terrorism, leading to a robust Indian response.
Following substantial losses, Pakistan requested a cessation of hostilities, which India acknowledged without compromising its stance. Bharti stressed the importance of having clear conflict termination criteria and strategic insight to avoid prolonged conflicts. Operation Sindoor underscored the significance of air power beyond just the Air Force, providing valuable insights into countering terrorism effectively.
In conclusion, Bharti noted that India’s enhanced understanding of its adversaries post-Operation Sindoor would unsettle terrorists in Pakistan, as India now possesses critical intelligence on their capabilities and tactics.
