India’s naval forces came just minutes away from launching a sea strike on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi revealed on April 1, 2026. The disclosure came during a naval ceremony in Mumbai, where officers were awarded for their roles in the operation.
Operation Sindoor was launched in May 2025 after a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which killed 26 people. Indian forces carried out coordinated strikes on terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan‑occupied territories.
Admiral Tripathi said the Navy deployed warships in the Arabian Sea and was ready to strike Pakistan. The planned sea attack was halted after Pakistan requested a stop to military actions, preventing further escalation.
“It is not a hidden fact anymore that we were just minutes away from striking Pakistan from the sea,” Tripathi said, highlighting how narrowly a major confrontation was avoided.
He described Operation Sindoor as a demonstration of India’s maritime readiness and resolve, with swift deployment reinforcing national confidence in the Navy’s capabilities.
The Navy Chief also noted ongoing global maritime instability, including threats to shipping in the West Asia region and disruptions near the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing the importance of naval vigilance.
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