In the lead-up to "Operation Sindoor," Indian Army air defense (AD) units were strategically deployed along the western front, resulting in the downing of over 600 drones launched by Pakistan. The remaining drones were successfully repelled. This operation, which commenced on May 7, showcased India's ability to defend its skies with precision, shattering the "myth of drone supremacy".
To counter potential aerial threats, India mobilized over 1,000 AD gun systems and 750 short and medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems, integrated with a network of radars. This swift deployment transformed the air defense network from a peacetime posture to full operational readiness, effectively thwarting multiple waves of drones unleashed by Pakistan during the hostilities.
According to an Army Air Defence (AAD) officer, the operation not only protected vital military and civilian infrastructure but also highlighted the effectiveness of Indian boots on the ground, supported by indigenous technology and rigorous training.
Pakistan's drone strategy aimed to map and test India's AD radar network and deplete India's ammunition reserves. The Indian defense establishment was prepared, having built up adequate ammo reserves through regular and emergency procurements over the past five years, spurred by military tensions with China in eastern Ladakh. Another officer stated that Pakistan's plan to overwhelm India's integrated air defense grid, gather real-time intelligence, and target population centers, military assets, and places of worship failed spectacularly. India avoided revealing all its radar capabilities to prevent the adversary from picking up electronic signatures.
In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in 26 civilian deaths, India launched "Operation Sindoor". The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted surgical strikes on key Pakistani airbases, including Noor Khan and Rahimyar Khan, utilizing loitering munitions, also known as "suicide drones". These drones hovered over target zones before striking high-value enemy installations, such as radar and missile sites. The operation was completed in just 23 minutes with no Indian losses, showcasing tight coordination between surveillance, jamming, and drone delivery systems.
Post-operation recoveries provided clear evidence of the threats neutralized, including debris of PL-15 Chinese-origin missiles and Turkish-made UAVs. According to an India Today report, Turkey played a significant role in supporting Pakistan by supplying over 350 drones and deploying military operatives to coordinate attacks. Two Turkish military operatives were reportedly killed during India's "Operation Sindoor". The Turkish support included Asisguard Songar and Bayraktar TB2 models. The Songar drones, equipped with assault rifles and grenade launchers, were used for close air support, while the Bayraktar TB2 drones provided surveillance and target designation capabilities.
"Operation Sindoor" signifies a shift in India's military readiness towards tech-driven, homegrown defense systems. The operation neutralized Pakistani attacks and demonstrated India's maturing defense innovation, supported by ISRO satellites and a growing domestic drone industry.
During "Operation Sindoor," India targeted nine terrorist camps linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strikes on May 7 resulted in over 100 terrorist deaths, including high-value targets, and destroyed key terror infrastructure. Pakistan retaliated on May 8–9 with 300–400 drones targeting 36 Indian locations. Forensic analysis of downed drones confirmed they were Turkish-made Asisguard Songar models.
As part of retaliatory strikes, India targeted military installations and airbases, reportedly destroying several PAF fighter jets. Over 50 individuals, including a Squadron Leader and airmen, were killed in a strike on Bholari air base.
