India’s Changing Security Strategy
India’s approach to using force has evolved gradually since independence.
Earlier, India saw military force as something to avoid.
Over time, especially after the 1971 war with Pakistan, India became more assertive about using military power.
Recently, India is adopting a new, more proactive strategy focusing on preventing and punishing threats, especially from Pakistan.
Despite this, India still aims to show responsibility and restraint when responding to security challenges.
Traditional Focus and New Domains
Historically, India’s security focused mainly on land forces because of long borders and internal conflicts.
The sea (maritime domain) has recently gained importance for India’s defense and diplomacy.
Air power was less emphasized because of concerns about escalating conflicts and competing threats from China and Pakistan.
China’s military, especially its air power, is currently stronger than India’s in many ways.
Role of Air Power and Operation Sindoor
Operation Sindoor showed India’s willingness to use offensive air power actively against threats.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) already had strong non-combat roles like airlift and disaster relief.
Before Operation Sindoor, offensive air power was seen as risky and was used mainly in full-scale war.
The 2019 Balakot air strike marked a shift toward offensive use of air power.
The IAF has been pushing for more involvement in limited conflicts and “no-war-no-peace” situations.
Competition for defense budgets among the Army, Navy, and Air Force has slowed the IAF’s growth in offensive capabilities.
The IAF argues that air power can cause serious damage to enemies without needing to send ground troops.
Future Direction and Challenges
Air power should complement, not replace, land and sea forces in India’s overall military strategy.
Offensive air power could become the first response in many situations, supported by strong air defenses.
India’s military needs better equipment and more funding to face new threats, like advanced fighter jets (e.g., China’s J-35 being supplied to Pakistan).
The IAF must modernize quickly with government support to meet future challenges and fulfill its potential demonstrated in recent operations.
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