Operation Sindoor: India's Unpredictable Military Response to Pakistan's Terror Infrastructure

General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff, has compared Operation Sindoor to playing chess, emphasizing the unpredictability of India's military response to strike terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoJK. The operation involved grey zone tactics, short of conventional operations, and was a coordinated effort by the three forces. General Dwivedi said that the forces adopted a chess-like approach, making unpredictable moves to counter the enemy's actions.

In a recent address at IIT Madras, General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff, offered insightful comparisons between India's Operation Sindoor and a game of chess. This operation, launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, showcased the Indian military's strategic flexibility and unpredictability in countering terrorism in Pakistan and PoJK.

General Dwivedi emphasized that Operation Sindoor was not a conventional military operation but rather a series of "grey zone" tactics. These tactics involved striking deep into Pakistan's heartland, targeting critical assets, and maintaining the unpredictability of a chess game. The operation, which lasted several days, involved coordinated efforts from the army, navy, and air force, and resulted in significant damage to Pakistan's terror infrastructure.

The operation's success was attributed to the "free hand" given by the central government, which allowed the armed forces to operate with complete operational freedom. This political will and clear direction were crucial in raising the morale of the forces and enabling them to act swiftly and decisively.

The operation's impact was substantial, with over 100 militants killed and critical assets damaged. Pakistan retaliated with cross-border shelling and air defence measures, but India's counter-attacks were equally effective, damaging radar systems, communication hubs, and airfields at 11 Pakistani bases.

In a significant development, India's air defence systems shot down five Pakistani fighter jets and one AEW&C/ELINT surveillance aircraft during the operation. This marks the largest-ever surface-to-air kills recorded by India, demonstrating the effectiveness of India's air defence capabilities.

The operation also highlighted the strategic importance of the Brahmaputra River and the potential for China to influence Pakistan's water resources. China's recent addition of 100 nuclear warheads has further complicated regional dynamics, with Pakistan boosting its defense budget by 17% to meet the challenges posed by India.

The operation's success has also sparked debate about the future of India-Pakistan relations and the potential for further escalation. As the conflict continues to unfold, investors and financial professionals should monitor the geopolitical developments and their potential impact on regional economies.

References:
[1] https://m.economictimes.com/news/defence/pak-army-chief-has-become-a-field-marshalwe-must-have-won-indian-army-chief-mocks-pakistan-calls-op-sindoor-a-game-of-chess/articleshow/123212992.cms
[2] https://asia.nikkei.com/politics/international-relations/india-pakistan-crisis