India Thwarts Pakistani Missile Attack During "Operation Sindoor"; Golden Temple Targeted
India's S-400 missile defence system successfully intercepted an alleged nuclear-capable Shaheen missile fired by Pakistan during "Operation Sindoor." The Indian Army also revealed that its Air Defence systems, including AKASH missiles and L-70 guns, foiled Pakistani attempts to target the Golden Temple in Amritsar and other Punjab cities with missiles and drones, safeguarding key national and religious sites.
Unpacked:
The missile exchange followed Indian armed forces' precision strikes against four terrorist camps in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan's subsequent attempted missile attack appears to have been a retaliatory response to these strikes, escalating tensions between the two countries.
The S-400 is considered India’s most advanced air defense system, capable of targeting aircraft, drones, and ballistic missiles up to 400 km away. In contrast, AKASH has a shorter range (up to 25 km), and L-70 guns are primarily for low-altitude, close-range defense. The S-400 forms the top layer of India's multi-tiered air defense.
The Golden Temple is the holiest site for Sikhs and a symbol of religious harmony in India. An attack would have severe consequences, fueling communal tensions, damaging India’s global image, and escalating military and diplomatic conflict between India and Pakistan.
India’s S-400 deployment enhances its deterrence against aerial threats from Pakistan and China, strengthening its defense posture. The purchase from Russia also strained India’s relations with the US, which threatened sanctions, highlighting India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy in its defense procurement.