Operation Sindoor vs 2019 Balakot airstrikes vs 2016 surgical strikes: How India’s latest attack marks a strategic shift

In a bold and unprecedented move, the Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor, executing precise missile strikes on nine terrorist sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation was carried out in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives — including 25 Indian civilians and one Nepali national — two weeks earlier.

Notably, Operation Sindoor marks India’s most extensive cross-border military action in five decades, surpassing the scale and depth of both the 2016 surgical strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes.

Here are the key differences:

Strikes on multiple high-value targets across a wider area: In 2019, India attacked a single site. This time, it targeted nine terror launchpads.

Deeper penetration into Pakistani territory: According to official briefings, India targeted terror infrastructure almost 100 km beyond the Line of Control.

Tri-service execution and advanced weaponry: The Indian armed forces deployed loitering munitions, precision-guided missiles, and adopted a tri-service strategy involving the Army, Air Force, and Navy.

Security analyst Aadil Mir told ANI, “India crossed two significant thresholds — hitting multiple sites and targeting Pakistan's heartland. This goes far beyond 2019.”

Key terror infrastructure targeted included:

• JeM headquarters at Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur
• LeT’s main base at Markaz Taiba in Muridke
• Hizbul Mujahideen-linked sites in Muzaffarabad, Kotli, Sialkot, Barnala, and Tehra Kalan

The name “Sindoor” — referring to the vermillion worn by Hindu married women — is also a symbolic tribute to the widows of the Pahalgam victims.

Operation Sindoor showcased India’s ability to conduct rapid, simultaneous strikes using standoff weapons, thereby minimizing the risk of airspace violations.

India also clearly communicated its limited intent to the international community.

Retired Brigadier Hemant Mahajan praised the mission, stating: “A world-class precision strike. We hit them when they least expected — and hit them hard.”