We Are Ready For Next Battle: Defence Ministry Stresses On Combat Readiness For Future Ops

Air Marshal AK Bharti on Monday declared that Indian forces stand fully ready for any future war. He shared key takeaways from Operation Sindoor and affirmed India’s defence preparedness.

“The next battle will be different,” he said. “It is a cat-and-mouse game. We must stay ahead.”

He stressed that Indian forces trained and equipped themselves for modern warfare. “We were ready. We were trained and prepared,” he added.

Furthermore, he pointed to rising technology in warfare. “Our adversaries also evolve. But we are ready for future battles,” he said.

To underscore India’s intent, he quoted Ram Charit Manas: “Bhay bin hoye na preet (There is no love without fear).” He said India’s escalation aimed to warn Pakistan.

Earlier, DGMO Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai explained India had anticipated an aerial strike. As a result, the forces activated a layered drone and air defence grid.

“This grid stopped all attacks on 9 and 10 May,” he said.

He stated that Pakistan crossed a red line. “The Pahalgam terror attack filled the vessel of sin. It was time to act,” he said.

Meanwhile, Air Marshal Bharti criticised the Pakistani military. “We only struck terror hubs on 7 May,” he said. “They made it their war by protecting terrorists.”

He highlighted India’s strong air defence. “Our shield blocked drones and missiles, including UCAVs,” he said.

He also praised the Akash system and older systems. “Their performance was outstanding,” he added.

The press briefing included a video and slides. They showed destroyed PL-15E missiles and drones shot down by laser weapons and electronic warfare tools.

A poem by Ramdhari Singh Dinkar played in the background.

Earlier that day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and NSA Ajit Doval attended.

The crisis began after Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 25 tourists and a pony handler in Pahalgam on 22 April. India responded with airstrikes on 7 May, hitting nine terror camps and killing over 100 terrorists.

Subsequently, Pakistan fired drones and missiles into Indian territory. Indian forces intercepted all threats.

Following this, the IAF launched a 90-minute strike on 11 Pakistani airbases. Most were key military sites. Eventually, both countries agreed to a ceasefire on Saturday.

Also Read: Our Fight Against Terrorism, Pity That Pakistan Chose To Intervene For Terrorists: Air Marshal AK Bharti