New Delhi/Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hinted at the use of BrahMos missile in Operation Sindoor, a counter-offensive launched in response to April 22 Pahalgam attack.
“You must have seen a glimpse of the BrahMos missile during Operation Sindoor. If you didn’t then ask Pakistanis about the strength of the missile,” he said while addressing a gathering after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated a new BrahMos facility in Lucknow via video conferencing.
According to reports, the discovery of a missile booster and nose cap near Bikaner in Rajasthan had led to speculation about deployment of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile during the recent retaliatory strikes. Air-launched BrahMos cruise missiles reportedly struck at least three of the 11 PAF bases targeted by Indian fighter aircraft on Saturday. Airbases at Rafiqui (Shorkot), Murid (Chakwal), Nur Khan (Rawalpindi), Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, and Chunian (Kasur). Additionally, radar installations in Pasrur and Sialkot were hit using precision munitions after Pakistan targeted military installations in India.
Speaking publicly for the first time on the Operation following its commencement, the Defence Minister said that the might of Indian armed forces was felt even in Rawalpindi, the nerve centre of the Pakistani military establishment.
“Operation Sindoor is not just a military operation but also the symbol of India’s political, social and strategic willpower. This operation against terrorism was also the display of India’s willpower and military power & capability. We have shown that whenever India will take any action against terrorism, even the land beyond the border won’t be safe for terrorists and their leaders. Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor to demolish terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. We never targeted their civilians. But Pakistan not only targeted civilian areas in India but also attempted to attack temples, gurdwaras and churches. With valour and bravery, Indian armed forces displayed restraint and gave a befitting reply by targeting other locations in Pakistan,” he said.
The foundation stone for the Defence Technology & Test Centre and BRAHMOS Manufacturing Centre, established by the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, was laid on December 26, 2021. This facility, built with an investment of Rs 300 crore, will produce 100 Brahmos Missiles per year.