Why India Chose Air Power Over Drones In Operation Sindoor: CDS Anil Chauhan Explains

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Anil Chauhan has explained why India deployed air power against terrorist camps in Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, reported The Times Of India.

Speaking at an event in Gorakhpur, he said the strikes targeted camps in Bahawalpur and Muridke, as drones and loitering munitions alone could not achieve the political objectives following the Pahalgam terror attack.

"After the Pahalgam terror attack happened, we already had enhanced precision strike capabilities. When we discussed with the political leadership, it was decided that by only using drones and loitering munitions, we will not be able to achieve the political objectives. To destroy terrorist camps in Bahawalpur and Muridke, it was necessary to use air power," CDS Chauhan said.

He added that the political leadership provided "a clear direction with a clear message to destroy the terrorist camps, and retaliate only if we are attacked."

The CDS noted that India had already conducted precision strikes against terrorists holed up in Pakistan after the Uri and Pulwama attacks, reflecting its strengthened long-range strike capabilities.

Chauhan highlighted lessons learned from previous operations, saying, "India and Pakistan learned different lessons after the Balakot operation. India focused on long-range precision strike weapons and post-strike damage assessment, and Pakistan might have focused on its air defence."

On 7 May, India launched Operation Sindoor in response to the Pakistan-backed Pahalgam terror attack.

Indian forces destroyed multiple terror infrastructures in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan, including Bahawalpur and Muridke.

As tensions escalated and Pakistan fired drones and missiles on Indian civilian and military infra in western sector, Indian forces struck the Rahim Yar Khan Pakistani Air Force base in southern Punjab and the Nur Khan air base in Rawalpindi.

During Operation Sindoor, the CDS emphasised that India had full operational freedom, including planning and selecting targets.

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Also Read: "Numbers Not Important": CDS General Chauhan On India's Aircraft Losses During Operation Sindoor