India’s Armed Forces demonstrated their high-impact, short-duration operational capability during Operation Sindoor, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday, underscoring the growing strategic importance of air power in modern warfare.
Addressing the Air Force Commanders’ Conclave in New Delhi, the Defence Minister described the Indian Air Force (IAF) as a technologically advanced, operationally agile and future-oriented force that continues to safeguard national interests amid a rapidly evolving global security environment.
Singh praised the courage, speed and precision with which the IAF carried out strikes on terror camps during Operation Sindoor and effectively dealt with what he termed Pakistan’s “irresponsible reaction” following the operation. Highlighting public confidence in the Armed Forces, particularly in India’s air defence capability, he said the calm response of citizens during attempted attacks on Indian installations reflected trust in the country’s operational preparedness.
Calling on commanders to draw lessons from Operation Sindoor, Singh stressed the need for constant vigilance and a deep understanding of an adversary’s offensive and defensive capabilities to maintain a decisive edge.
Defence Minister said air power has emerged as a decisive force in contemporary warfare. He noted that air power is not merely a tactical asset but a strategic instrument, with speed, surprise and shock effect as its defining characteristics. According to him, air power enables political leadership to convey a clear strategic message while aligning national objectives with military means through reach and precision.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s security apparatus, Singh said 21st-century warfare is increasingly shaped by ideas, technology and adaptability. He highlighted the growing role of cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, satellite-based surveillance and space-enabled capabilities, adding that precision-guided weapons, real-time intelligence and data-driven decision-making are now fundamental to success in modern conflicts.
The Defence Minister also expressed confidence that the Sudarshan Chakra air defence initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day address this year, would play a key role in protecting national assets. He added that the development of indigenous jet engines has been declared a national mission, with full government support.
Singh said the government is working closely with the private sector, including startups and MSMEs, to accelerate the modernisation of the Armed Forces. Citing initiatives such as iDEX and ADITI, he noted that as of November 2025, 672 winners have emerged from 565 challenges under iDEX, including 96 winners linked to IAF-specific challenges, reflecting growing private sector and youth participation in defence manufacturing.
Describing Operation Sindoor as a strong example of tri-service synergy, the Defence Minister emphasised the importance of jointness among the Army, Navy and Air Force in dealing with emerging security challenges. He also lauded the IAF’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions at home and abroad, saying these efforts have further strengthened public trust in the force.
The conclave was attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and senior IAF commanders. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was received by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh and briefed on the IAF’s operational readiness. The conclave serves as a key platform for deliberations on operational priorities, emerging threats and advancing self-reliance in defence capabilities.
