Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has confirmed the use of the BrahMos missile in Operation Sindoor, stating that those who doubt its power should inquire with the people of Pakistan. Speaking at an event in Lucknow during the inauguration of the BrahMos Aerospace Integration & Testing Facility, Adityanath emphasized the missile's capabilities and India's firm stance against terrorism.
Operation Sindoor was launched in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir, that resulted in the deaths of at least 26 tourists on April 22. India reported that the operation targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, specifically targeting groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba. Pakistan retaliated with a counteroffensive, "Bunyan Marsoos" (Solid Structure), targeting what it claimed were Indian military sites involved in strikes against Pakistani civilians and military infrastructure. These targets included a BrahMos missile storage facility in Beas, Punjab Province, and multiple airfields along the Line of Control (LoC).
The BrahMos missile, a supersonic weapon with a range of up to 800 kilometers, is a key strategic asset for India. It is a supersonic cruise missile based on the Russian 3M55 Oniks and was developed through a joint venture between India and Russia. During Operation Sindoor, India reportedly used air-launched precision weapons such as the HAMMER, SCALP, and BrahMos missiles to strike airbases and radar sites in Pakistan. Pakistani sources reported that the strikes hit multiple airfields and missile stations.
The Indian Air Force has stated that Operation Sindoor is still underway and that it has "successfully executed its assigned tasks with precision and professionalism". They added that the operations were conducted deliberately and discreetly, aligned with national objectives. The Air Force has urged against speculation and unverified information, promising a detailed briefing in due course.
The recent escalation has led to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, with airspace closures and reports of cross-border attacks. Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority announced the closure of the country's airspace in response to the alleged missile strikes. India has also accused Pakistan of launching hundreds of drones into India, targeting military installations and civilian areas, many of which were reportedly shot down by India's air defense systems.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has declared that any future act of terrorism will be considered an act of war. Adityanath echoed this sentiment, stating that terrorism must be crushed completely and answered in its own language. He asserted that Operation Sindoor sent a clear message to the world about India's resolve.
