Indian Navy Responds- In a significant military development, the Indian Navy launched targeted operations in the Arabian Sea early Friday morning following a series of aggressive moves by Pakistan, including attempted missile strikes and drone attacks on Indian territory. According to top defence sources, the naval actions were a calibrated response to a major escalation initiated by Pakistan.
The response comes just a day after Pakistan fired missiles into several locations across Jammu and Kashmir, including RS Pura, Arnia, Samba, and Hiranagar. Loud explosions were reported in Jammu on Thursday evening, with Indian air defence systems successfully intercepting all incoming threats. No civilian casualties or infrastructure damage were reported.
Widespread Drone Activity, Blackouts Across Northern Cities
In a simultaneous offensive, drones believed to be of Pakistani origin attempted to target military installations in several Indian cities. These included areas along the International Border, such as Pathankot and Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. Indian forces swiftly neutralised these threats using a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic countermeasures.
To counter the risk of targeting and maintain operational secrecy, coordinated blackouts were enforced in multiple cities, including Chandigarh, Mohali, and Srinagar. The temporary power outages were part of established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during heightened threat levels, especially to prevent drones from identifying key installations at night.
Defence Ministry Statement
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), the Ministry of Defence confirmed the attempted strikes:
“Military stations at Jammu, Pathankot, and Udhampur were targeted by Pakistani-origin drones and missiles along the International Border in J&K today. The threats were swiftly neutralised using kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities in line with established SOPs. No casualties or material losses were reported.”
It further emphasized India’s preparedness:
“India remains fully prepared to defend its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its people.”
Background: Operation Sindoor and Pahalgam Terror Attack
These events follow Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory strike launched by Indian forces on Wednesday in response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives. That attack, attributed to Pakistan-based terrorist groups, marked the beginning of the latest escalation in hostilities.
Under Operation Sindoor, the Indian military struck nine high-value targets across Pakistan, including the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke and Jaish-e-Mohammed in Bahawalpur, both in Pakistan’s Punjab province. The strikes were described as “precise, measured, and non-civilian” in nature.
Pakistan retaliated on Thursday morning by launching missiles and drones at more than 15 locations in India. Most were intercepted or rendered ineffective. Indian forces subsequently destroyed at least one of Pakistan’s air defence systems in Lahore as part of a counterstrike.
India Warns of Further Response
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the media on Thursday, making it clear that the Indian military’s actions were responses to aggression and not provocations.
“The original escalation was by Pakistan on April 22 with the terror attack in Pahalgam. India’s actions have been restrained, focused on eliminating terror camps, and designed to avoid civilian harm. Further escalation by Pakistan will be met with decisive force.”
Misri criticized Islamabad for attempting to portray India as the aggressor, stressing that it was Pakistan that had first violated peace through terrorism.
Strategic Implications
Military analysts believe that the overnight naval operations in the Arabian Sea reflect India’s preparedness to open multiple fronts if required, while ensuring Pakistan’s offensive capabilities are kept in check. The coordinated use of the Navy, Air Force, and ground-based defences also signals a shift towards integrated joint-force responses to asymmetric threats.
Furthermore, the Indian military’s use of both kinetic (missiles, airstrikes) and non-kinetic (electronic warfare, cyber disruption, drone jamming) measures demonstrates a modern, multi-domain approach to warfare.
What to Watch Next
- Diplomatic developments, especially at the United Nations and other international forums
- Potential responses or statements from Pakistan’s government or military
- Domestic political reactions ahead of the ongoing election season in Ind
