Operation Sindoor Marks Historic Combat Debut for Two Indian Women Colonels

Operation Sindoor marked the combat debut of two Indian women colonels, who led air defense units against Pakistan’s missile and drone attacks. Supported by young Agniveers and advanced systems like Akashteer, India’s multi-layered defense successfully repelled the offensive, highlighting both technological strength and the army’s growing gender inclusivity in command roles.

Operation Sindoor, India’s military retaliation against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, marked a historic moment as two women colonels led air defense (AD) units in live combat for the first time. The May 7–10 conflict saw Pakistan launch waves of missile and drone attacks, which were successfully countered by India’s multi-layered AD shield, including the units led by these pioneering women officers.

One colonel commanded her unit at Pathankot, Punjab, while the other led operations at Suratgarh, Rajasthan. Both regions were prime targets during Pakistan’s aerial offensive, but India’s AD grid, bolstered by resilient leadership, repelled the strikes effectively. These women, among the 120 colonels appointed since 2023, represent a landmark shift toward gender parity in the Indian Army, with many now commanding units in operational areas.

Alongside seasoned officers, at least 3,000 young Agniveers — soldiers recruited under the Agnipath scheme — played a critical role. Barely two years into service, these Agniveers operated advanced weapons like the L-70 guns, Strela and Tunguska systems, Pechora missiles, and the Akash surface-to-air missiles. They also manned radars, communications, and the locally developed Akashteer air defense control system, which worked in sync with the IAF’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS).

The confrontation saw India intercept a range of threats, including Chinese-origin PL-15 missiles and Turkish-origin drones. Despite Pakistan’s relentless efforts, its forces failed to breach India’s robust AD shield, fortified by a mix of cutting-edge domestic and imported systems, including the S-400.

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Operation Sindoor was not only a critical military success but also a symbolic breakthrough, demonstrating the capabilities of India’s expanding women leadership and the combat-readiness of its youngest soldiers.