Operation Sindoor: India targeted terror camps, not Pakistan, says Air Marshal AK Bharti; armed forces reaffirm preparedness
PTC Web Desk: In a high-level joint press briefing, senior military officials from the Indian Armed Forces emphasised that India’s recent offensive under Operation Sindoor was aimed solely at terrorist infrastructure, not against the Pakistani state. They reiterated that Pakistan is responsible for the consequences of its actions, having chosen to support terrorists instead of distancing itself from them.
Air Marshal AK Bharti said, “Our fight was against terrorists. It’s unfortunate that the Pakistan Army chose to interfere and made it their own. That’s why we had to retaliate. Pakistan is fully responsible for the losses it has suffered.”
The operation saw India destroy nine terrorist camps, using precision airstrikes while minimising collateral damage. “We deliberately avoided civilian and military infrastructure. Despite continuous attacks from Pakistan, our air defense systems stood like a wall — impenetrable,” said Air Marshal Bharti said.
He further confirmed that all Indian military bases and systems remain fully operational and are ready for any new mission.
Air Marshal Bharti revealed that India’s defense forces faced drone and UAV attacks, including Chinese-origin missiles and Turkish drones, all of which were neutralised by India’s multi-layered defense network. “Our systems — from vintage to modern — responded effectively. The Akash missile system also played a critical role,” he said.
Using cultural references to underline his point, AK Bharti remarked: “Whether it’s Turkish drones or any other advanced technology, we have shown we are fully prepared. As the Ramcharitmanas says, ‘Bhay binu hoye na preet’ — there can be no peace without the deterrence of strength.”
Vice Admiral AN Pramod detailed the Navy’s contribution to Operation Sindoor, saying, “We provided surveillance, detection, and real-time intelligence using multiple sensors and advanced radars. Our MiG-29s on the aircraft carrier were combat-ready, and our pilots operated in day and night conditions. We have not allowed a single suspicious enemy vessel to come close in recent years.”
Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai highlighted the evolving nature of terrorist threats and the layered security around India’s airfields. “Crossing our air defense layers is nearly impossible. Even older systems performed flawlessly. Our defense shield is active at all times.”
He praised the Border Security Force (BSF) for their integrated support and added a cultural nod, saying, “When determination is high, no goal is out of reach. During Operation Sindoor, all three services worked in unison with 1.4 billion Indians standing behind us. For that, we salute the nation.”
Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai said, “Along the international boundary, there was a layered defense system consisting of radar, air defense systems, vintage as well as modern air defense systems. Penetrating this to strike our airfields was extremely difficult for the adversary.”
“This situation reminds me of a cricketing moment from the 1970s, during the series between England and Australia. Fast bowlers Jeff Thomson and Dennis Lillee wreaked havoc on the English batsmen. At the time, the Australians coined a saying: ‘Ashes to Ashes and Dust to Dust.’”
“And speaking of cricket, it's worth mentioning that Virat Kohli has announced his retirement. He’s also one of my favourite cricketers,” he said, adding that, “Even if the enemy somehow manages to breach the defense layers shown in the image, they will be intercepted before they can strike any airfield. Our air defense shield is always active," said Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai
“I would also like to appreciate the Border Security Force (BSF). From their Director General to the soldiers standing guard at posts — they actively contributed and supported us. They were an integral part of our multi-tiered defense group. As the saying goes: ‘When determination is high, no goal is unreachable," he said
“During Operation Sindoor, all three armed forces operated in perfect coordination. We had the strength of 1.4 billion Indians standing behind us — and for that, we salute you,” he added.
Responding to media questions about the scale of the aerial combat, Ar Marshal VK Bharti emphasised the need to evolve with every conflict:
“Every battle will not be fought the same way. This was a different kind of war. Many more forms of warfare will emerge, and we are prepared for them," said AK Bharti, addingm “We were given a job — and we completed it.”
- PTC NEWS
