India’s Defence Power Surges Post-Balakot Strikes

India’s Defence Power Surges Post-Balakot Strikes

Why in the News ?

India has significantly enhanced its military capabilities since the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. Amid rising tensions with Pakistan after the recent Pahalgam attack, India’s upgraded arsenal includes Rafale jets, S-400 systems, and cutting-edge indigenous technologies.

Post-Balakot: Strengthened Military Arsenal

• India has plugged major capability gaps in the last 5–6 years through imports and indigenous production.
• Key acquisitions include Rafale fighter jets, S-400 missile systems, Barak 8, INS Vikrant, and INS Arighaat.
• New inductions also include Prachand helicopters, C-295 aircraft, advanced artillery, and assault rifles.
• Upgrades are geared to tackle dual threats from Pakistan and China, especially post the Ladakh standoff.

Indigenous Advancements and Strategic Capabilities

• India successfully tested a 30-kilowatt directed energy weapon (DEW), capable of neutralising drones.
• Progress in scramjet engine development marks a step toward future hypersonic missile systems.
• Trials of Agni-5 MIRV missile, K-4 submarine-launched missile, and ballistic missile defence (BMD) underline nuclear triad readiness.
• Long-range precision strikes demonstrated in naval drills bolster India’s sea-based deterrence in the Arabian Sea.

Preparedness and Strategic Messaging

• PM Modi and top officials vowed a crushing response to the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians.
• India’s current military posture is significantly stronger than in 2019, offering more offensive options.
• Experts highlight India’s growing edge over adversaries, signalling a strategic shift in deterrence and response