New Delhi, Dec 18: Asking Air Force commanders to draw lessons from ‘Operation Sindoor’ and remain prepared for future challenges, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday said that action against the terrorist camps in Pakistan and PoK demonstrated India’s high-impact, short-duration operational capability.
Addressing the Indian Air Force Commanders’ Conclave here, Singh, said the Indian Air Force plays a key role in safeguarding national interests amid a changing global security environment.
He said the operation reflected the ability of the armed forces to act with speed and coordination.
The Defence Minister while referring to the strikes on terror camps during ‘Operation Sindoor’ and the subsequent response to actions by Pakistan said, “Public confidence in the armed forces, particularly in air defence preparedness, was evident as people remained calm during attempts to target Indian installations.”
Singh underlined the need for a clear assessment of an adversary’s offensive and defensive capabilities to maintain an operational edge.
He said commanders must stay vigilant and ready to deal with emerging threats.
Referring to recent conflicts including the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Balakot air strikes and Operation Sindoor, Singh said air power has emerged as a key element in modern warfare. “The air power functions not only as a tactical resource but also as a strategic instrument, enabling leadership to convey intent through speed, reach and precision,” he added.
The Defence Minister said warfare in the 21st century is shaped by technology and adaptability.
He pointed to the growing role of cyber operations, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, satellite-based surveillance and space-related capabilities.
He said precision weapons, real-time intelligence and data-driven decision-making have become integral to military planning.
Singh reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s security apparatus. He said the proposed Sudarshan Chakra air defence initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year, would contribute to the protection of national assets.
He said the development of indigenous jet engines has been taken up as a national mission.
The Defence Minister said the government is working with private industry, start-ups and MSMEs to support modernisation of the Armed Forces through initiatives such as iDEX and ADITI.
He said that as of November 2025, 672 winners had emerged from 565 challenges under iDEX, including 96 winners linked to Indian Air Force requirements.
Describing Operation Sindoor as an example of coordination among the three Services, Singh stressed the importance of jointness to improve operational effectiveness.
He also referred to the Indian Air Force’s role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions in India and abroad.
The conclave was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and senior Indian Air Force commanders. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh briefed the defence minister on operational readiness. (KNO)
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