‘Operation Sindoor’ showcased power of air attacks: Air Chief Marshal

Srinagar, Oct 8: Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh on Wednesday said that ‘Operation Sindoor’ demonstrated how air power, when applied with precision and planning, can influence military outcomes in a short span of time.
Addressing air warriors at the 93rd Indian Air Force Day celebrations at Hindon Air Base, the Air Chief Marshal, said, “Disciplined operations, empowered leadership, and indigenous technology enabled rapid, high-impact action across the Line of Control (LoC).”
“Our performance in Operation Sindoor fills us with professional pride. We proved to the world how air power can be effectively used in shaping military outcomes in just a few days,” he added.
Pertinently, ‘Operation Sindoor,’ launched in May 2025 following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, targeted nine terrorist camps deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), the skirmishes that followed led to Pakistan vital military installations and air bases suffering massive damages.
Singh said the mission was a result of “meticulous planning, disciplined training and determined execution,” adding that the operation reaffirmed the offensive role of air power in national security.
He said the use of indigenously developed platforms and weapons played a key role in the operation. “The outstanding performance of the indigenously developed and integrated weapons which delivered precise and devastating blows deep inside enemy territory vindicates our faith in home-grown capabilities,” he said.
According to him, India’s long-range missile systems and integrated air defence architecture also restricted enemy movement during the operation. “Our robust air defence architecture and offensive employment of long-range surface to air missile systems limited the adversary’s ability to operate and ensured safety of our vital assets,” he said.
Singh said there is a growing culture of accountability and readiness across the force. “I can see that there is an increased culture of accountability, safety and security among air warriors. This is directly reflected in our reduced incidents and accidents.”
He noted that leadership within the force is driving this momentum. “At all levels, leaders are leading from the front, demonstrating vision and empathy. They are ensuring that every individual is empowered with the necessary training and is motivated.”
Meanwhile, Hindon air base at Ghaziabad hosted IAF’s 93rd Foundation Day showcasing India’s aerial strength and operational readiness with display of fighter jets such as the Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and MiG-29. The IAF parade also highlighted the achievements of Operation Sindoor.
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh inspected the parade and took the salute at the parade held at Hindon Air Base as part of the Air Force Day celebrations.
Earlier, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi and Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi paid tribute to the soldiers at the National War Memorial on the occasion of 93rd Air Force Day.
CDS, along with the chiefs of the Indian Air Force, Army and Navy, laid wreaths at the National War Memorial.
This year’s parade was held at Hindon Air Base, one of India’s largest and most strategic airbases. The Air Force Day parades were previously held in Chennai in 2024 and Prayagraj in 2023.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) highlighted the achievements of Operation Sindoor during the Air Force Day celebrations. It demonstrated the force’s operational strength, growing technological capabilities, and humanitarian role that it has played over the years.
This year, the static display line-up also included platforms that played a part in forcing Islamabad to retreat and seek a ceasefire after its Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) dialed his Indian counterpart.
The display featured fighter jets such as the Rafale, Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and MiG-29, along with India’s indigenous Netra AEW&C, the C-17 Globemaster III, the indigenous Akash Surface-to-Air Missile System, the C-130J Hercules, Apache attack helicopters fitted with Longbow radar, and the Advanced Light Helicopter. An S-band Rohini radar will also be part of the display.
The recently retired MiG-21 Bison was also a part of the display as a tribute to its over six decades of service to the IAF.
President Droupadi Murmu extended greetings to Air Force personnel, veterans, and their families on the occasion of the 93rd Air Force Day. In a post on X, Droupadi Murmu said, “Warm greetings to all air warriors, veterans and their families on Air Force Day! The Indian Air Force has always demonstrated courage, commitment, and excellence. Our Air warriors protect our skies and serve the nation with tireless dedication during disasters and humanitarian missions.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also greeted Air Force personnel on Air Force Day and said they have played a vital role in safeguarding Indian skies during the most challenging situations. Modi said, “Greetings to all the courageous Air Warriors and their families on Air Force Day. The Indian Air Force epitomises bravery, discipline and precision. They have played a vital role in safeguarding our skies, including during the most challenging situations.” (KNO)