Is India's Perfect War Strategy Setting a New Global Standard?

After the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, India's overnight missile strikes on terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and Punjab through 'Operation Sindh' were not just a reaction but a well-planned message. This move highlights a new contours of India's military strategy in the backdrop of the global war on terror. The question arises, is India setting a new international standard through its perfect war strategy?

Border warfare and diplomatic pressure were the main weapons in the Indo-Pak conflict in the past. However, with the surgical strikes of 2016 and the Balakot airstrikes of 2019, India has shown a different strategy. 'Operation Sindh' has made that continuity more precise and mature. The attack targeted only terrorist camps, where it was possible to gain international sympathy along with military success.

The two main strengths of this strategy are technology-based weapons and human intelligence (HUMINT).  India uses satellites, drones, targeting systems and military field data to determine the exact time and place of the strike. This reduces collateral damage (unnecessary loss of life) and sends a clear strategic message—India is no longer soft on terrorism.

Other powerful countries in the world, such as America or Israel, have been using such weapons for a long time through their drones or satellites. However, the fact that India is implementing such operations amidst economic constraints and geographical challenges can be an effective model for the ‘Global South’. Brazil, Indonesia or some countries in Africa can be inspired by this Indian strategy, because it combines technology, tactics and limited attacks.

Meanwhile, countries such as the United States, France, Russia and others are seeing India’s move as a ‘restrained and targeted’ response. Even US President Donald Trump said, “I want them to solve the problem themselves. But if necessary, I will be there.”

 Such specific defensive measures not only represent military successes but also strengthen India’s standing on the international stage. It shows that India is not just reacting, but is taking its own strategy and decisions—and that too for the purpose of defense and deterrence, not attack.

However, to maintain this trend, India will have to invest more in artificial intelligence (AI), cyber defense, and command centers capable of making quick decisions. Because the next war will be a war of information and technology, where not only weapons but also information is of immense value.

Therefore, it can be said that India’s perfect war strategy, while not yet a global standard, is setting a promising precedent, especially for countries that feel the need for greater defense with limited resources.