ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shaurya Dhakate is an Advocate and a researcher specialising in geostrategic and military affairs. He has contributed to leading national security journals published by premier think tanks, including the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, the United Services Institution of India, and the Centre for Air Power Studies. His primary areas of interest include the modern application of airpower and the evolution of autonomous Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs). He has also written extensively on the cross-theatre employment of drone swarms as a means to deceive and disorient aerial adversaries.
When India turned its mandate Crimson Red
Excerpts from Interviews featured in the book:
“A clear message has been sent that Indian skies are well guarded and not for trespass.”
– LT. GEN. SUMER IVAN D’CUNHA
Director General, Army Air Defence
“Op Sindoor reflects a paradigm shift in the way India perceives punitive deterrence and a willingness to climb the escalation ladder.”
– AIR VICE MARSHAL ARJUN SUBRAMANIAM (RETD.)
“The response from the press was overwhelming; there was palpable excitement, engagement and energy in the room.”
– WING COMMANDER VYOMIKA SINGH
IAF Spokesperson During Operation Sindoor
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In April 2025, a devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam stunned the nation and set in motion a chain of events that would culminate in one of the most decisive military responses in India’s recent history. Operation Sindoor captured the country’s attention as India carried out precision strikes against terror infrastructure across Pakistan, marking a moment of resolve that dominated headlines and public debate. As blackouts spread across border towns and drones filled the night sky, the country watched closely as events moved toward a decisive response.
The book gives a peek into high-level meetings in the PMO and the cabinet secretariat, culled from public sources and media, which provided an operational mandate to the Armed Forces.
From the night the aircrafts took off and missiles struck their targets to the press briefings in New Delhi and Islamabad, this is the story of the dramatic days that followed and a tribute to the professionalism and strategic clarity of the Indian Armed Forces.
