Union Minister Sanjay Seth has declared that "New India roars like a lion," celebrating the success of Operation Sindoor and the pivotal role played by indigenous weaponry in the conflict. Operation Sindoor, launched in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam, saw India strike military targets in Pakistan, causing significant damage and leading to a ceasefire within days.

The Success of Indigenous Weapons

A key highlight of Operation Sindoor was the performance of India's indigenously developed weapon systems. These systems demonstrated their effectiveness against advanced foreign-supplied weaponry used by Pakistan, including Chinese and Turkish-origin equipment. According to the Press Information Bureau (PIB), all offensive strikes on Pakistani military targets were executed without any loss of Indian assets, underscoring the effectiveness of indigenous surveillance, planning, and delivery systems. The use of modern indigenous technology, ranging from long-range drones to guided munitions, ensured that the strikes were highly effective and calibrated.

DRDO chief Dr. Samir V. Kamat emphasized that Operation Sindoor showcased India's self-reliance, strategic foresight, and indigenous technological strength. He noted that the operation was a statement to the world that India has the capability to protect its borders through homegrown technology.

Key Indigenous Weapons Systems

Several indigenous weapon systems played critical roles in Operation Sindoor.

• BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile: Jointly developed with Russia but largely manufactured in India, the BrahMos is one of the fastest and most precise cruise missiles globally. Launched from Sukhoi Mark 1 platforms, it served as the primary offensive weapon, striking high-value targets such as radar stations and hardened bunkers.
• Akash Surface-to-Air Missile System: This indigenously developed, all-weather, mobile air defense system played a crucial role in countering Pakistani drone and missile attacks. Integrated with the Akashteer Command & Control System, an AI-enhanced air defense network, it provided real-time data fusion, enabling coordinated responses to multiple airborne threats.
• Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launcher (MBRL): Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Pinaka MBRL system proved to be a game-changer. With the capacity to fire 12 rockets in just 44 seconds and a range of up to 75 kilometers, it delivered a significant blow to Pakistani forward posts, artillery emplacements, and supply routes.
• HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft: India's first indigenously developed light combat aircraft, the Tejas, was deployed along the western sector to counter Pakistani air intrusions and maintain air superiority. Its agility, small radar cross-section, and advanced electronic warfare suite made it effective in quick response missions.
• Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) System: Built by DRDO on an Embraer platform, Netra provided real-time tracking of enemy aircraft and missiles, vectoring Indian jets for deep-strike missions.
• Dhanush Howitzer and ATAGS Artillery: The Indian artillery arm saw success with the indigenous Dhanush Howitzer and the ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System). Dhanush, a modernized version of the Bofors gun, offered extended range, night firing capability, and superior accuracy. The ATAGS showcased raw firepower and technological brilliance.

Strategic and Political Dimensions

The success of Operation Sindoor has been attributed to several factors, including clear political will and a "free hand" given to the armed forces. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted the importance of narrative management in war and took a swipe at Pakistan's claims of victory. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh attributed the operation's success to the central government's political will, noting that the Indian Armed Forces carried out the mission without any external constraints.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stated that Indian technology and the Make in India initiative were behind the success of Operation Sindoor. He emphasized that the world witnessed India's new face during the operation, demonstrating its ability to destroy terror hubs deep inside Pakistan. He also urged citizens to use Swadeshi products and promote the "Make in India" initiative.

Looking Ahead

The success of Operation Sindoor is expected to boost India's defense exports. DRDO chief Samir Kamat anticipates a doubling of defense exports in the next two to three years, with a target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029. There is significant interest in indigenous systems like Pinaka, ATAGS, BrahMos, and Akash.

Operation Sindoor has not only demonstrated India's military capabilities but has also reinforced the country's commitment to self-reliance in the defense sector and its growing global presence.