Operation Sindoora and the Need for Military Stocktaking
Why in News?
In the aftermath of Operation Sindoora, and rising tensions between India and Pakistan, military experts have called for a comprehensive post-conflict review, similar to the Kargil Review Committee set up after the 1999 war. The recent developments demand urgent evaluation of tactics, strategy, intelligence lapses, and equipment readiness to strengthen India’s future military preparedness. 
Introduction
The high-decibel rhetoric by Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir and the focus on “existential threats” and “Hindu-Muslim” divisions may have attracted headlines, but the real concern lies in how India interprets, evaluates, and learns from recent military confrontations—especially the Balakot air strikes and the post-Sindoora scenario.
Former Navy Chief Admiral Arun Prakash argues that India should not delay a structured, honest appraisal of recent air combat operations, aircraft losses, and strategic communication during the conflict, warning that failure to introspect could leave India vulnerable in future engagements.
A Call for Post-Operation Review
Operation Sindoora—marked by one of the largest Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air combat events in Indian history—saw Indian forces engage Pakistani aircraft in retaliation for previous provocations. The Indian Air Force (IAF) demonstrated boldness in its targeting of Pakistani infrastructure, but gaps in combat readiness, intelligence, and air superiority still raise concern.
Three core concerns demand attention:
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Narrative and Strategic Communication
India’s success in precise airstrikes was undermined by Pakistan’s media manipulation, disinformation, and swift diplomatic outreach. India, lacking a clear narrative and coordinated briefings, failed to project its tactical superiority globally. -
Aircraft Losses and Airpower Vulnerability
Despite the bravado, India’s aircraft losses were significant, especially concerning the MiG-21 and Su-30 squadrons. In contrast, the Pakistani Air Force (PAF) suffered minimal losses. This imbalance suggests either an equipment mismatch, or lapses in preparedness. -
BVR Combat Lessons & Capability Gaps
The sheer scale of the BVR dogfights—over 100 aircraft were engaged on May 7-8—demands a recalibration of IAF air doctrines. These must consider evolving threats from China, Pakistan, and beyond, including regional powers like Indonesia.
Strategic Urgency Post-Operation Sindoora
Prime Minister Modi’s clear warning about India’s “red lines” and resolve during his May 12 speech has raised the stakes. However, experts warn that strong words must be backed by coherent long-term military doctrine, not ad hoc reactions.
India’s next-generation combat planning must integrate:
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Improved ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) assets
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Doctrinal revisions for multi-theatre warfare
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Counter-disinformation strategies
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Realistic war-game training based on recent conflict scenarios
A high-level review committee, such as the Kargil Review Committee, is essential to avoid repeating past mistakes.
Conclusion: Don’t Delay the Review
India cannot afford complacency in the face of evolving regional threats, doctrinal gaps, and growing Chinese-Pakistani military coordination. The absence of formal review post-Balakot or Sindoora is troubling.
As Admiral Arun Prakash writes, “The experience of aerial ambushes in Kargil and Balakot must be addressed post-haste.” A new Combat Development Establishment and military-intelligence modernization must be accelerated.
This is not just about preparedness—it’s about credibility, deterrence, and long-term national security planning.
Q&A Section
1. Q: What is Operation Sindoora?
A: It refers to India’s recent military retaliation involving large-scale air combat with Pakistan, following provocations and earlier strikes like Balakot.
2. Q: Why is a post-operation review being demanded?
A: Experts want a structured review to assess tactical readiness, equipment gaps, and doctrinal flaws exposed during the conflict.
3. Q: What was unique about the BVR combat during the operation?
A: It was the largest Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air combat in India’s history, involving over 100 aircraft across multiple theatres.
4. Q: What role did strategic communication play?
A: India’s lack of a clear narrative allowed Pakistan to dominate international perception despite Indian military successes.
5. Q: What model is being suggested for review?
A: A review committee akin to the Kargil Review Committee, set up after the 1999 war, to address both tactical and strategic shortcomings.
