Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on Thursday highlighted Operation Sindoor as a defining demonstration of India’s high-impact, short-duration operational capability, underscoring the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) role as a decisive instrument of national power. Addressing the Air Force Commanders’ Conclave in New Delhi, he described the IAF as a technologically advanced, operationally agile, strategically confident, and future-oriented force, well-equipped to safeguard India’s national interests amid a rapidly evolving global security environment.
Precision, Speed and People’s Trust
Commending the courage, speed and precision with which the IAF neutralised terror camps during Operation Sindoor, the Raksha Mantri also praised the force’s effective handling of the subsequent “irresponsible reaction” from Pakistan. He noted that the calm response of Indian citizens during attempted retaliatory actions reflected deep public trust in India’s air defence preparedness.
Emphasising the importance of understanding both offensive and defensive capabilities of adversaries, Shri Rajnath Singh urged IAF commanders to draw operational lessons from Operation Sindoor and remain vigilant and prepared to counter future challenges.
Air Power as a Strategic Instrument
Reflecting on the changing character of warfare, the Raksha Mantri stated that recent conflicts—including the Russia-Ukraine war, the Israel-Hamas conflict, the Balakot air strikes, and Operation Sindoor—clearly demonstrate that air power has emerged as a decisive force in modern warfare.
He stressed that air power is not merely a tactical asset but a strategic instrument, defined by speed, surprise and shock effect. Through reach and precision, air power enables national leadership to convey clear strategic messaging while aligning military capabilities with national objectives.
21st Century Warfare: Technology, Ideas and Adaptability
Reiterating the Government’s commitment to strengthening India’s security apparatus, Shri Rajnath Singh stated that 21st century warfare extends beyond weapons to ideas, technology and adaptability. He highlighted the growing importance of cyber warfare, artificial intelligence, unmanned aerial systems, satellite-based surveillance and space-enabled capabilities.
He added that precision-guided munitions, real-time intelligence and data-driven decision-making are now foundational requirements for success in modern conflicts. Nations that master the trinity of technology, strategic vision and adaptability, he said, are best positioned to emerge as global leaders.
Indigenous Capabilities and Aatmanirbharta
The Raksha Mantri expressed confidence that Sudarshan Chakra, announced by the Prime Minister during the Independence Day address this year, will play a vital role in protecting national assets. He also reiterated that the development of indigenous jet engines has become a national mission, with full governmental commitment to achieving this goal.
Highlighting collaboration with the private sector, start-ups and MSMEs, he noted that initiatives such as iDEX and ADITI are actively drawing young innovators into defence manufacturing. As of November 2025, 672 winners have emerged from 565 iDEX challenges, including 96 winners from 77 IAF-related challenges—reflecting growing private-sector interest in defence innovation.
Tri-Service Synergy and Humanitarian Role
Describing Operation Sindoor as a shining example of tri-service synergy, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasised the importance of jointness among the three Services in enhancing operational effectiveness in today’s dynamic security landscape.
He also lauded the IAF’s consistent role in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) missions, both within India and overseas, noting that the successful execution of missions under challenging conditions has further strengthened public trust in India’s air warriors.
Conclusion
The Air Force Commanders’ Conclave reaffirmed the central role of air power in India’s national security strategy. With Operation Sindoor as a benchmark for precision, speed and jointness, the Raksha Mantri called upon IAF leadership to remain future-ready, technologically adept and strategically agile. The conclave, attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and senior IAF commanders, provided a vital platform to deliberate on operational priorities, emerging threats and the continued pursuit of Aatmanirbharta in defence capabilities.
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Source: PIB
