Recently, Operation Sindoor was the watershed moment in India’s policy against cross-border terror. The operation demonstrated India’s upgraded military capabilities, particularly the deployment of SCALP cruise missiles and HAMMER precision-guided munitions. These cutting-edge weapons, launched from Rafale fighter aircraft, enabled India to target terror camps deep within Pakistan. But why SCALP and HAMMER were deployed for the operation, what they were capable of, and their implications for India’s defence strategy.
Genesis of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor was launched in retaliation against the terror strike in Pahalgam, where Pakistani militants had killed 25 tourists and one local. The attack highlighted the cross-border terrorism threat that loomed large. India attacked Pakistan’s terrorist camps in reprisal.
The operation targeted nine strategic locations, such as Jaish-e-Mohammed strongholds in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba strongholds in Muridke. With the help of SCALP missiles and HAMMER bombs, India kept civilian casualties to a bare minimum while inflicting maximum damage on Pakistan’s terror network.
Why SCALP Cruise Missiles?
SCALP (Storm Shadow) is an air-to-ground, long-range missile with a reputation for precision and stealth. It has a range of 450 kilometers and can reach far, well-protected destinations. The missile functions in all weathers and under night conditions, a fact that makes it suitable for operations such as Sindoor. Its sophisticated guidance system, which incorporates GPS, inertial navigation, and terrain reference, ensures pinpoint accuracy with little collateral damage.
SCALP’s infra-red seeker targets a pre-loaded target image with great precision. Its low-altitude flight profile makes it immune to radar detection, and its 450 kg warhead packs the biggest punch. The missile brought heavy damage upon the targeted terror camps, giving a severe blow to Pakistan’s terror machinery.
HAMMER Precision-Guided Munitions
The HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) is also a cutting-edge weapon employed in Operation Sindoor. Its 70-kilometer range makes it hard to intercept, particularly from low-altitude launches. HAMMER is designed in a modular format to accommodate different bomb sizes, ranging from 250 kg to 1,000 kg, giving it operational flexibility. Its penetration capability into hardened structures made it a perfect choice to neutralize hardened terror hideouts.
HAMMER’s jamming capability and performance in mountainous regions was vital for the operation. It was instrumental in leveling Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters, responsible for attacks such as the 2019 Pulwama bombing.
Role of Rafale Jets in the Operation
India inducted Rafale aircraft into its Air Force in 2020. The aircraft had a pivotal role to play during Operation Sindoor. With superior avionics and weapon systems such as SCALP and HAMMER, Rafale aircraft carried out targeted attacks deep within enemy territory. In comparison to Mirage 2000 aircraft used during the 2019 Balakot airstrike, Rafale aircraft provided more capability.
Rafale jets’ sophisticated radar capabilities, large payload, and agility made them ideal for this operation. Their stealth capabilities enabled India to attack swiftly and withdraw undetected, making the operation a success.
Significance of Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor is a milestone in India’s defense policy. It shows that India can conduct deep strikes with little damage to civilians and the environment. With SCALP and HAMMER, India struck established terror camps with precision, causing minimal harm to civilians and the environment.
The operation sends a clear message: India will not hesitate to take firm action against cross-border terrorism. Operation Sindoor’s success, aided by Rafale fighter jets and cutting-edge munitions, solidifies India’s role as a regional military power. It also signifies a change toward a precision warfare defense strategy aimed at avoiding civilian casualties and attacking terrorist infrastructure head-on.
Future of India-Pakistan Military Conflicts
Operation Sindoor showcases India’s increased military power and its resolve to fight cross-border terrorism. India has escalated the stakes in its war against Pakistan by employing SCALP and HAMMER. The operation also demonstrates India’s capability to strike effectively at terrorist threats.
Though military action can provide short-term gains, the bigger problems of terrorism and border conflicts are not addressed. Operation Sindoor’s application of high-tech weapons heralds a new era in defense policy. From now on, India will trust more in technology and accuracy in defense policy. But the bigger India-Pakistan dispute has to be addressed using diplomacy and regional engagement.
