Operation Sindoor: This is how Indian Navy got ready to hit Karachi

In a powerful show of naval strength, the Indian Navy deployed 36 frontline assets, including the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and multiple submarines, near Karachi as part of Operation Sindoor. This marked a dramatic escalation in India’s maritime posture, especially when compared to the six warships used during the 1971 operations targeting Karachi.

Also Read:Facing backlash over ‘support to Pak’, Turkey resorts to damage control; welcomes Indians

The deployment followed a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on May 7, where 26 people, mostly tourists, lost their lives. In response, India launched a multi-pronged military retaliation against Pakistan, with the Navy playing a central role. The Carrier Battle Group centered around INS Vikrant was accompanied by 8-10 additional warships, including seven destroyers armed with BrahMos missiles, MRSAM (Medium-Range Surface-to-Air missile) systems, and Varunastra torpedoes. This strike-ready formation extended deep into the Arabian Sea.

India also mobilized seven stealth guided-missile frigates, including the newly commissioned INS Tushil and around six submarines, enhancing stealth and strike capabilities. Supporting vessels like missile boats and fast attack crafts added to the force, making it one of the Navy’s most extensive real-time operational deployments.

Pakistan’s Navy, facing overwhelming odds, reportedly remained docked in Karachi harbour. The situation prompted commercial vessels to reroute, avoiding the escalating tension in the region.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that over 100 terrorists and their associates were eliminated during Indian strikes in Pakistan and PoK. A ceasefire understanding was reached between the two countries on May 10, temporarily de-escalating hostilities.