Is China Testing Its Weapons For Free — And Are We Ready For The Next Move?

July 4, 2025: Retired Major General GD Bakshi has called for stronger strategic and technological preparedness in light of growing regional threats, particularly from China and Pakistan, following the Indian Army’s recent revelations about Operation Sindoor.

The operation, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives, showcased India’s military precision and total air superiority. According to the Indian Army, nine terror camps deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) were destroyed in the operation.

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Speaking on the evolving nature of warfare, Bakshi said, “China is testing their weapons for free against advanced systems. We must be technologically prepared and strategically alert.” His remarks follow a detailed statement by Lieutenant General Rahul R Singh, Deputy Chief of Army Staff (Capability Development and Sustenance), who outlined key insights from Operation Sindoor.

China and Pakistan’s Strategic Alliance

Lt Gen Singh emphasized the growing depth of the China-Pakistan military partnership, revealing that 81% of Pakistan’s military hardware is now Chinese. He also disclosed that China provided live data on Indian military positions, while Turkey supplied advanced drones including Bayraktar UAVs to Pakistan.

“We had one border, but two adversaries—Pakistan at the front and China in support. In real terms, we were facing three,” said Lt Gen Singh during the ‘New Age Military Technologies’ event hosted by FICCI.

Key Lessons from Operation Sindoor

Singh described the operation as a “masterstroke,” adding that it was executed with strategic restraint and maximum impact. Intelligence-driven targeting led to 21 terror infrastructure locations being identified, with nine engaged based on final-hour decisions.

“Air defence, strategic messaging, and integrated force operations were key to our success,” he said. The operation was conducted as a tri-services mission, sending a strong signal of India’s integrated military capabilities.

He warned, however, that future conflicts might not spare India’s population centers. “This time they didn’t target our civilian areas—but next time, we must be fully prepared.”

Strategic Preparedness is Essential

Bakshi praised the Army’s response, calling Lt Gen Singh’s briefing a “measured and mature” statement. “We showed air superiority and handled the escalation intelligently. We could have done more damage, but wisely chose to de-escalate,” he noted.

Singh concluded by emphasizing the need for a robust air defence system, greater technological integration, and sustained strategic awareness. “War is easy to start, hard to stop. We must always be at the top of the escalation ladder,” he said.

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