Unveiling the Principal Offensive Weapon Used in Operation Sindoor, According to DRDO Head
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India's Operation Sindoor, conducted in May 2025, marked a significant milestone in the country's military history. This precision military response to terrorism showcased an advanced integration of multiple indigenous and jointly developed defense technologies spanning missile systems, air defense, surveillance, and command-control networks.
The operation, characterised by its high coordination and multi-dimensional approach along India's western borders, utilised a range of key technologies to achieve its objectives.
Akash Missile System
The Akash Missile System, an indigenous short- and medium-range surface-to-air missile system, played a prominent role in the operation. It was successfully tested in a real combat scenario, providing effective interception capabilities to protect Indian airspace along the western border.
BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile
The BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile, a jointly developed Indo-Russian missile, was deployed for precision strikes targeting terrorist command and control infrastructure deep inside Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This marked the first time BrahMos demonstrated its operational effectiveness under Indian conditions.
B-4 Anti-Drone System
The B-4 Anti-Drone System (referred to as D4 in some sources) was another critical component of the operation. This indigenous drone detection and neutralisation system countered hostile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and asymmetric warfare tactics employed against India, contributing to dominance in drone warfare and enhanced protection of ground forces and installations.
AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) System
Airborne platforms equipped with the AEW&C System provided real-time situational awareness, early detection of enemy aircraft or missiles, and effective command and control of air defense assets. They enabled seamless coordination and timely response across conflict domains.
Akashteer Air Defence Control System
The Akashteer Air Defence Control System served as a dedicated air defense command-and-control network, managing and coordinating various missile and radar units. It integrated real-time data for optimal defence and offense outcomes.
C-4I System
The C-4I System, an advanced network-centric warfare system, facilitated integration of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance data with command decisions and weapon deployments, ensuring networked and responsive battlefield management.
In addition to these systems, the operation also validated the S-400 Triumf Russian-made long-range mobile surface-to-air missile system, which provided a high-altitude multi-target engagement capability, effectively countering Pakistani aircraft and cruise missiles.
Operation Sindoor highlighted a multi-domain integration of indigenous innovation, joint ventures, and strategic deployment. The success of these systems under operational conditions affirmed India's Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defense technologies.
The operation effectively neutralised terrorist infrastructure without crossing international boundaries, enabled by precise space-based satellite communications and navigation support in challenging Himalayan terrain. It marked enhanced capabilities in air defense, drone countermeasures, precision strike, and battlefield decision-making, signifying a significant milestone in India's military technological evolution.
The Akashteer system, in particular, was a crucial element in the operation, enhancing its overall effectiveness. It was used for managing and coordinating all sensors, as well as providing the necessary support to identify and neutralise threats. The Akashteer anti-drone system was also employed as a defensive weapon system.
The Sukhoi Mark 1 platform served as a launching platform for the BrahMos missile during the operation. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Chairman, shared insights into the technology used during Operation Sindoor, reiterating that the technology supported the soldiers' courage and capability, contributing significantly to the operation's success.
The operation involved the use of advanced technology such as sensors, unmanned platforms, secure communications, AI-driven decision support, and precision weaponry. This detailed blend of indigenous innovation, joint ventures, and strategic deployment reflects India's advancing defense technology landscape focused on self-reliance, integrated domain warfare, and sophisticated use of space and terrestrial assets in securing national interests.
- The Akash Missile System and the B-4 Anti-Drone System, both key technologies showcased during Operation Sindoor, contributed significantly to the success of India's air defense and drone countermeasures.
- The AEW&C System, integrated in airborne platforms during Operation Sindoor, provided real-time situational awareness and effective command and control of air defense assets, enabling seamless coordination across conflict domains.
