Kutch Key to Sindoor Sequel: Forgotten War Holds Lessons for Future Plans
Overview
The article discusses the lessons from the Kutch conflict of 1965 between India and Pakistan, emphasizing their relevance to contemporary military and strategic planning. It highlights the importance of learning from past conflicts, like Operation Sindoor, to prepare for future challenges.
Lessons from the Kutch Conflict
- Operation Sindoor is viewed as an incomplete issue by India, similar to how the Kutch conflict was a prelude to the 1965 India-Pakistan war.
- Pakistan misinterpreted the ceasefire during the Kutch conflict as a victory, leading to the launch of Operation Gibraltar and Operation Grand Slam.
- India, learning from Kutch, prepared a counter-offensive strategy targeting Lahore and Sialkot by planning Operation Riddle.
Strategic Planning and Military Preparedness
- India must develop short-term and long-term plans to address potential conflicts with Pakistan.
- Over six months, India should enhance critical military capabilities, focusing on missiles, ammunition, sensors, and air defenses.
- In two years, India should acquire more Beyond Visual Range (BVR)-capable fighters and improve long-range artillery.
- In five years, India should increase defense spending to 2.5% of GDP to ensure military superiority over Pakistan.
Geopolitical Considerations
- The article suggests that Pakistan's military might miscalculate India's response based on historical patterns of conflict.
- Pakistan's leadership could initiate short conflicts to destabilize India, thinking it would internationalize the Kashmir issue.
Conclusion
India must avoid complacency and use the success of Operation Sindoor as motivation to enhance its strategic and military capabilities. The emphasis is on preparing for potential miscalculations by Pakistan's leadership and ensuring India's readiness for future conflicts.
