Operation Sindoor: A New Normal in India’s Strategic Calculus?
The dust is still settling from Operation Sindoor, the calibrated military response initiated by
India in early May 2025 following the tragic terrorist attack in Pahalgam. This operation,
which targeted terrorist infrastructure across the Line of Control and deeper into Pakistan, has
undeniably marked a significant moment in India’s approach to cross-border terrorism. But
the question that now looms large is: Is Operation Sindoor a “new normal” in India’s strategic
toolkit?
What Was Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, in response to the Pahalgam terror attack
that claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. India’s military response was characterized by:
- Precision Strikes: India employed advanced indigenous technologies, including
loitering munitions, drones, and stand-off weapons like BrahMos and SCALP
missiles, to conduct surgical strikes on identified terrorist infrastructure. Targets
included alleged terror camps and facilities of groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and
Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. - Multi-Domain Operation: The operation showcased impressive synergy between the
Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy, operating across land, air, and sea. The Indian Air
Force delivered precision strikes, while the Navy asserted maritime dominance, and
the Border Security Force thwarted infiltration attempts. - Technological Self-Reliance: A key highlight was the effective integration of
indigenous high-tech systems into national defence, demonstrating India’s growing
self-reliance (“Aatmanirbhar Bharat”) in military operations, from air defence systems
to drone warfare and electronic warfare. - Calibrated Response: India described its actions as “focused, measured, and non-
escalatory,” explicitly stating that Pakistani military or civilian facilities were not
targeted, aiming to degrade terrorist capabilities without triggering a full-blown war.
The “New Normal” Argument
Several factors suggest that Operation Sindoor might indeed be a harbinger of a new normal
in India’s strategic response to terrorism:
- Proactive Deterrence: Operation Sindoor signals a shift from purely reactive defence
to a more assertive, punitive deterrence. It demonstrates India’s willingness to cross
borders and employ military force against those who harbor or support terrorism,
regardless of geographical limitations. This is a clear message that continued
aggression will be met with decisive responses. - Emphasis on Indigenous Capability: The successful deployment of Indian-made
military hardware and software during Operation Sindoor underscores the
government’s sustained investment in defence indigenization. This reduces reliance on
foreign suppliers and strengthens India’s strategic autonomy. The push for 52
dedicated defence satellites by 2029, spurred by the operation, further cements this
commitment. - Integrated Warfare Doctrine: The seamless coordination between different
branches of the armed forces during the operation indicates a maturing of India’s
integrated command and control strategy. This “jointness” is crucial for effective
responses in a multi-domain warfare environment. - Controlled Escalation: Despite the high-stakes nature of the operation, India
managed to keep the conflict contained, demonstrating a refined capacity for
calibrated coercion in a nuclear-shadowed environment. This provides a template for
future responses, balancing firmness with a commitment to avoid broader conflict. - Redefining Red Lines: Operation Sindoor has likely redefined India’s “red lines”
regarding cross-border terrorism. The message is clear: the cost of supporting terror
will be directly borne by the perpetrators and their sponsors.
The Way Forward
Operation Sindoor undoubtedly represents a significant moment in India’s national security
landscape. It showcases India’s growing military capabilities, its commitment to indigenous
defence, and a more assertive stance against cross-border terrorism. While debates and
challenges remain, the calibrated force demonstrated, coupled with strategic foresight and
technological prowess, indicates a potential shift in India’s approach to safeguarding its
security.
The “new normal” may not be about constant large-scale military engagements, but rather a
robust and flexible framework where India is willing and capable of delivering precise,
proportionate, and impactful responses to threats, backed by strong indigenous capabilities
and a clear political resolve. The world will be watching closely to see how this evolving
strategic calculus shapes the regional security dynamics in the years to come.
