‘Minutes away from strike’: Navy Chief reveals India’s near sea attack on Pakistan during Op Sindoor

India was “minutes away” from launching a naval strike on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, Chief of the Naval Staff Dinesh K Tripathi revealed, highlighting the Indian Navy’s aggressive posture during the 2025 military operation. Speaking at a naval investiture ceremony, he said the Navy maintained a high level of operational readiness and was prepared to strike from the sea when Pakistan requested a halt to kinetic actions.

Operation Sindoor was launched on May 7, 2025, following a deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians. The operation aimed to dismantle terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, resulting in the elimination of over 100 terrorists. The escalation led to several days of military confrontation before a cessation of hostilities was announced on May 10.

Admiral Tripathi emphasised that the Navy’s swift deployment and assertive stance played a crucial role in reinforcing national confidence and demonstrating India’s maritime strength. He noted that the force remained combat-ready throughout the operation and showcased its capabilities during a 17-hour overnight embarkation attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi along the western seaboard.

He further stated that the Indian Navy’s posture compelled the Pakistan Navy to remain close to its ports, limiting its operational movement during the conflict. The Navy chief described Operation Sindoor as a reflection of evolving maritime strategy, where seas are increasingly becoming the primary arena for strategic signalling and conflict response.

Highlighting broader global concerns, he pointed to rising tensions in West Asia affecting maritime routes, with several vessels attacked and shipping traffic through critical chokepoints declining. He stressed that the changing nature of warfare demands enhanced readiness, technological adaptability, and sustained operational efficiency to address both conventional and emerging threats at sea.