New revelations from the Government’s latest Gazette Notification have shed unprecedented light on Operation Sindoor a daring, multi-front offensive by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Army that showcased a rare blend of precision, coordination, and raw courage. The operation, conducted along the western front and across the Line of Control (LoC), has now been detailed through the citations of Vir Chakra awardees, recognizing their acts of gallantry in one of India’s most significant recent military campaigns.
What began as a strategic aerial assault soon evolved into an intense test of technology, leadership, and nerve. The IAF launched precision strikes targeting key Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) bases deep inside enemy territory. In response, the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) scrambled jets and air defence systems, setting the stage for a dramatic duel in the skies. Simultaneously, Indian Army units executed artillery and drone-led strikes across the LoC, neutralizing terror camps and supply depots in Pakistan-occupied areas.
Among the heroes recognized, Group Captain Ranjeet Singh Sidhu, commanding officer of the Rafale squadron, led from the front in a series of deep-penetration strikes. His squadron operated from multiple western locations, achieving air defence superiority and enabling Su-30 MKI units to launch BrahMos missiles at Pakistani airbases. His leadership, precision planning, and composure under fire were pivotal to the success of the mission.
Another standout was Group Captain Manish Arora, who flew unescorted night strike missions through hostile radar zones. Facing barrage fire from both enemy aircraft and ground systems, Arora’s squadron inflicted crippling damage on fortified Pakistani targets, sowing chaos in enemy defences and emerging unscathed.
Equally critical was the contribution of Group Captain Animesh Patni, who commanded an S-400 Triumf air defence unit. His team not only destroyed multiple Pakistani aircraft but also protected vital Indian assets under heavy counterattack. His quick relocation tactics kept adversaries confused, while his team even apprehended an enemy intelligence operative during the operation.
In another remarkable feat, Group Captain Kunal Kalra displayed unmatched courage when his aircraft developed technical issues mid-flight. Despite system malfunctions and intense aerial threats, he pressed on, destroyed both assigned targets, and safely guided his formation back. His actions exemplified the Indian Air Force’s spirit of mission-first perseverance.
Wing Commander Joy Chandra and several Squadron Leaders Sarthak Kumar, Siddhant Singh, Rizwan Malik, and Aarshveer Singh Thakur were also honoured for their fearless precision strikes. These missions, often flown at night and at dangerously low altitudes, penetrated heavily fortified enemy airspace defended by long-range radar and missile systems. Their coordination and bravery ensured the total destruction of multiple high-value targets.
On the ground, the Army’s swift mobilization was equally impressive. Colonel Koshank Lamba led the first-ever rapid airlift of specialized artillery units, executing synchronized precision fire on terrorist camps despite enemy bombardment. His leadership under fire inspired his men to continue firing until objectives were achieved. Lieutenant Colonel Sushil Bisht too played a decisive role, leading his unit in a coordinated nighttime assault that obliterated enemy camps and eliminated scores of militants.
Operation Sindoor has come to symbolize a new era of Indian military synergy, combining air power, ground precision, and intelligence integration. The operation’s success achieved under extreme conditions and constant threat underscored the nation’s readiness to retaliate decisively against cross-border terrorism.
Each Vir Chakra citation stands as a testament to India’s strategic evolution and its soldiers’ unwavering valor from the skies dominated by Rafales and Sukhois to the artillery lines thundering across the LoC. Operation Sindoor was more than a military campaign; it was a statement of precision, preparation, and the will to protect the nation at all costs.
