Why Operation Sindoor lasted only four days: Army Chief explains the key factors behind modern warfare

After the conclusion of Operation Sindoor, many people questioned why India’s military action against Pakistan in May was wrapped up in just four days. On Tuesday, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi addressed these concerns and shed light on the realities of modern warfare.

Speaking at the 52nd National Management Convention of AIMA, General Dwivedi said, “Many were asking why this ended like a four-day Test match. The truth is, we were unsure how long the conflict would continue. Wars are inherently uncertain.”

The three pillars of sustaining a long war

General Dwivedi outlined three critical aspects that determine whether a conflict can be sustained over the long term:

Force Visualization – Understanding the opponent’s technological capabilities and resources. Drawing lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, he said initial assumptions often turn out wrong. While the world thought it would last only 10 days, it has stretched for years. Similarly, the Iran-Iraq war continued for nearly a decade.

Force Protection – Ensuring survival under constant attack. “You must be able to withstand continuous enemy strikes and still retain the ability to retaliate effectively,” he said.

Force Application – Using military power strategically and efficiently, with precision and adaptability.

Lessons from global conflicts

The Army Chief pointed out that low-cost, high-technology solutions have changed the nature of warfare. “The David versus Goliath principle shows that smaller players can challenge bigger powers if they have the right technology at low cost,” he said.

He also noted that military requirements keep evolving. “If today a weapon needs to strike at 100 km, tomorrow it may need to reach 300 km. As the adversary upgrades its technology, we must ensure ours stays ahead. This is why self-reliance in defense production is essential,” he stressed.

Operation Sindoor in brief

India launched Operation Sindoor on 7 May 2025, following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. During the operation, Indian forces targeted and destroyed several terrorist bases inside Pakistan. Pakistan responded with counter-attacks, leading to four days of cross-border conflict. The hostilities ended on the evening of 10 May 2025, after both nations reached an agreement.

General Dwivedi concluded that while the operation may have seemed short, it achieved its objectives. “Wars don’t always last for years. Sometimes, strategic goals are met earlier, or circumstances push towards de-escalation. That is the reality of modern conflict,” he said.