In a significant address, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan highlighted the profound psychological impact of India’s long-range precision strikes during the May cross-border hostilities with Pakistan. These operations, he noted, marked a critical turning point in modern warfare, showcasing India’s military capabilities.
Speaking at the inaugural Annual Trident Lecture Series, organized by the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies, General Chauhan confirmed that Operation Sindoor is currently ongoing. He emphasized the importance of rapid and targeted military action in shaping contemporary conflicts, stating that such strategies are central to future warfare.
General Chauhan articulated a paradigm shift in how wars are fought today, stressing that modern conflicts are increasingly less about territorial conquests or the capture of prisoners. “There were very long-range precision strikes at selected targets. The physical damage was limited, but the psychological impact was significant,” he explained. He emphasized that India demonstrated its ability to conduct deep, precise strikes, thereby illustrating its military sophistication and superiority.
Describing this evolution in military strategy as “the matrix of victory,” the CDS asserted that military dominance is now defined more by impact and effectiveness rather than by territorial gains. “It has nothing to do with territory. This is how domination is changing,” he stated, pointing to India’s alignment with global military trends that favor short, high-intensity operations over protracted engagements.
Additionally, General Chauhan noted the government’s establishment of “new norms” for defense, which require the Indian armed forces to maintain a “very high order” of operational readiness at all times. This heightened state of readiness, he argued, is crucial for deterring and swiftly responding to emerging threats.
In a direct warning to Pakistan, General Chauhan asserted that cross-border terrorism will face decisive action, indicating that militants can no longer rely on safe havens across the border. His statements reinforce India’s determination to utilize proactive and precise military responses in the name of national security, signaling a robust stance against terrorism and a commitment to safeguarding the nation’s interests.
