India's Operation Sindoor: Strategic Military Strikes Against Pakistan

India's Operation Sindoor has emerged as a pivotal military response following the Pahalgam terror attack. Utilizing advanced weaponry such as BrahMos missiles and Harop drones, the Indian Air Force executed a series of strategic strikes against key Pakistani air bases. The operation not only showcased India's military capabilities but also involved clever tactics to expose and neutralize Pakistan's air defenses. This article delves into the details of the operation, including the innovative use of dummy aircraft and the significant impact on Pakistan's military infrastructure. Discover how this operation marked a new chapter in India's defense strategy.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 16, 2025, 18:33 IST

Overview of Operation Sindoor

In a significant military initiative known as Operation Sindoor, India reportedly employed advanced weaponry to retaliate against the Pahalgam terror incident. This operation featured the deployment of BrahMos supersonic missiles and Harop drones, the latter being referred to as 'kamikaze drones' due to their self-destructive nature upon impact. These Israeli-manufactured drones specifically targeted and neutralized Pakistan's air defense radars, particularly in the vicinity of Lahore, facilitating subsequent Indian assaults. Recent reports indicate that India may have successfully lured Pakistan into revealing its defensive positions for a more extensive strike.

Key Events on May 7

On May 7, the Indian Air Force executed a daring military operation, utilizing BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to target critical Pakistani air bases during the second phase of Operation Sindoor. With robust support from other military branches, the IAF reportedly struck 11 out of 12 air bases across Pakistan, inflicting damage on air defense systems backed by China.

Sources indicate that approximately 15 BrahMos missiles were deployed in precise strikes against vital military installations, significantly impairing Pakistan's capacity to defend itself or initiate counterattacks. Additionally, Scalp missiles launched from Rafale fighter jets contributed to this highly coordinated offensive.

The Role of Dummy Aircraft

To outmaneuver Pakistani forces, the IAF devised a strategy involving the deployment of dummy pilotless aircraft designed to mimic fighter jets on enemy radar. This tactic successfully tricked Pakistan into activating its air defense systems, including the formidable HQ-9 system. Once these defenses were exposed, Indian forces deployed Harop drones to obliterate Pakistan's air defense network.

Impact of BrahMos Missiles

Following the degradation of Pakistan's air defenses, the Indian Air Force launched long-range missile strikes on key air bases using BrahMos and Scalp missiles. In total, around 15 BrahMos missiles were fired, alongside other advanced munitions like Rampage and Crystal Maze. These strikes were executed from India's Western and Southwestern Air Commands, delivering rapid and impactful blows to Pakistan.

The BrahMos missiles were pivotal in disabling runways, fortified shelters, and command centers, significantly diminishing the operational capabilities of the Pakistan Air Force. Reports indicate that when the Pakistani Air Force retaliated with aerial assaults, India's defense systems, including the Russian-made S-400 and indigenous Akash missiles, effectively intercepted most threats.

Consequences for Pakistan

Despite Pakistan's attempts to relocate its HQ-9 air defense systems for protection, Indian forces managed to track and target them successfully. The operation also utilized advanced missiles like Rampage and Crystal Maze, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of the strikes. Reports suggest that Pakistan incurred substantial losses, including several UAVs and an airborne early warning aircraft. This operation marked the inaugural use of BrahMos missiles in live combat, showcasing their lethal effectiveness on the battlefield.