India’s missile defence was driven to call Pakistan’s nuclear bluff — but it has always aimed higher, building a holistic shield against both Pakistani and Chinese missile threats (Imaging: Ajaya Mohanty)

India's missile defence was driven to call Pakistan's nuclear bluff — but it has always aimed higher, building a holistic shield against both Pakistani and Chinese missile threats (Imaging: Ajaya Mohanty)

The Iron Dome anti-missile system intercepts rockets launched from Gaza, as seen from the city of Ashkelon, Israel, on October 9, 2023 (Photo: Reuters)

Sudarshan Chakra fuses shield and sword into one doctrine of power, but its broad contours are unclear

From Iron Dome to Star Wars, it is now India's turn

Business Standard

A carrier battle group of the Indian Navy deployed during Operation Sindoor to deter Pakistani military activity in the maritime space in May (Photo: Indian Navy)

Recovered debris of a drone used by Pakistan in its attempts to attack India during Operation Sindoor (Photo: Indian armed forces)

Operation Sindoor involved the IAF successfully utilising the Russian-made S-400 missile defence system to counter Pakistani air attacks (Photo: Reuters)

A new set of disruptive technologies, indiscriminate use of air power, and obstinate willingness on both sides to test the tripwires have made the India-Pakistan conflict much more complex

A Vinod Kumar

A Vinod Kumar

A Vinod Kumar

From Iron Dome to Star Wars, it is now India's turn

Incremental climbs on the escalation ladder