COAS General Upendra Dwivedi Signals Readiness for Operation Sindoor 2.0 – Emphasis on Multi‑Domain Warfare

Overview The Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi told reporters on 30 May 2026 that the Indian armed forces are fully prepared to launch Operation Sindoor 2.0 if the situation escalates. He highlighted that all three services are improving multi‑domain warfare capabilities, extending beyond the traditional land‑air‑sea triad. Key Developments India’s army, navy and air force are synchronising training and equipment for a possible second phase of the 2025 Operation Sindoor mission. The current temporary cessation of hostilities is being used to intensify preparedness rather than to declare a permanent peace. Future conflicts are expected to involve emerging domains such as space , cyber and cognitive warfare . Military planners stress the need for cautious deployment and force‑protection measures because modern battlefields are “transparent” – every movement can be observed by the adversary. The remarks were made at the passing‑out parade of the 150th course of the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune. Important Facts • Operation Sindoor was launched in May 2025 after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people in April 2025. The exercise targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan. • The Indian Army, Navy and Air Force are now focusing on integrating capabilities in space , cyber and cognitive domains to achieve a seamless warfighting approach. • According to the COAS, the battlefield’s 24/7 transparency demands heightened caution in troop deployment and civilian protection along the border. UPSC Relevance The briefing touches upon several topics in the UPSC syllabus: Security & Defence (GS3) – Understanding India’s strategic posture, joint operations and the shift to multi‑domain warfare. Polity (GS2) – Role of the Chief of Army Staff and the institutional framework of the Indian Armed Forces. International Relations (GS3) – The cross‑border dimension of the operation, especially India‑Pakistan dynamics. Science & Technology (GS3) – Emerging domains like space, cyber and cognitive warfare that are reshaping modern conflicts. Way Forward • Continue joint training at institutions like the NDA to build interoperability. • Invest in indigenous capabilities for space‑based surveillance, cyber defence and information‑operations to reduce reliance on external systems. • Formulate clear doctrines for force protection in a transparent battlefield, ensuring civilian safety in border regions. • Maintain diplomatic channels with Pakistan to manage escalation risks while keeping the option of a calibrated military response ready.