US Indo-Pacific chief praises Operation Sindoor's 'tactical execution'

New Delhi:  US Indo-Pacific Command Chief Admiral Samuel J. Paparo on Sunday praised the Indian military for its tactical execution and restraint during Operation Sindoor, and said "there is always a lesson to learn from every conflict in the world."

What did the Admiral say about Operation Sindoor?

Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, while speaking during his visit to New Delhi, said that the defence relationship between India and the US is on a "steeply upward trajectory."

While replying to the question regarding his views on Operation Sindoor, the Admiral said that, "First of all, I have tremendous reverence for the terrible event (Pahalgam terror attack) that preceded the crisis."

The US commander also praised the Indian military for its tactical execution, saying, "In my discussion with my partners, I applaud the tactical execution (of operations). We also sincerely applaud the restraint that was exhibited. We hope to work together to see that such a terrible event doesn't happen again.” 

What did the Admiral say about lessons?

aparo, who is currently on a visit to India, also shared his thoughts about the lessons to be learned from the conflict,  because Chinese-origin weapons and guidance systems were used during the conflict.

Admiral Paparo said, “Complex long-range weapons have complex long- range kill chains. With the combination of sensors, communication, propulsion, warheads, seekers in the 21st century, geography is no longer a commodity...”

Did he talk about India-US relation?

Paparo described India-US defence relations as being on a “steeply upward trajectory,” even as he flagged concerns about increasing “coercion” and “aggression” in the Indo-Pacific region.

“And we think our partnerships have an exponential effect on deterrence, because it demonstrates a unity of purpose among us to maintain the peace and a peace through strength...I think as our policy leaders are managing the relationships, it’s the duty of our military leaders to keep a close eye on capability and to be ready to contest that capability at any moment,” he said.

The admiral also said that the US appreciates India’s role in maintaining security in the Indian Ocean. 

"Both countries remain committed to the principles of sovereignty, freedom of navigation, and free access to the seas," he said.