Operation Sindoor: What use of SCALP, HAMMER shows about India’s intent

Early on Wednesday (May 7), India launched Operation Sindoor to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack, using Rafale jets loaded with SCALP cruise missiles and HAMMER precision-guided bombs to target key infrastructure linked to groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK).

The choice of SCALP cruise missiles and HAMMER precision-guided munitions underscores India’s strategic move to strike specific terror infrastructure and avoid civilian casualties. Here is more about these weapons.

Also Read: Operation Sindoor LIVE: JeM, LeT, Hizbul Mujahideen headquarters hit in IAF strikes

SCALP missile

The SCALP missile, also known as Storm Shadow, is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile with a range of 300 km.

Its stealth design and advanced navigation system (INS, GPS, terrain referencing) allow it to fly low, evade detection, and strike deep into enemy territory.

Capable of night and all-weather operations, SCALP is particularly effective for penetrating hardened bunkers and ammunition stores. Notably, Ukraine recently used SCALP to hit targets inside Russia.

Upon approaching the target, the infrared seeker onboard the missile matches the target image that is fed into it to ensure precision and minimal damage to surrounding areas.

Also watch: Operation Sindoor: Decoding India’s answer to Pahalgam terror attack

Power of HAMMER

The HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) is an all-weather, air-to-ground precision bomb.

Also known as a glide bomb, it has a standoff range of 70 km, can be fitted to standard bombs, and launched from a low altitude over rough terrain.

Made by French firm Safran, HAMMER is resistant to jamming and can penetrate fortified structures, making it ideal for dismantling terror infrastructure.

Also watch: Operation Sindoor I 'It's a more assertive and riskier move, signalling a major shift'

Loitering munitions

Also referred to as “kamikaze drones”, loitering munitions were deployed for surveillance, target acquisition, and terminal strike purposes.

These drone systems hover over designated target areas and, either autonomously or under remote control, detect and eliminate threats.

Strategic edge

Operation Sindoor marks India’s most expansive cross-border strike since Balakot, demonstrating not just military might but also technological superiority.

Also Read: Pak PM Sharif terms Indian strikes on terror targets as 'act of war', vows to respond

Unlike the 2019 Balakot airstrikes that relied on ageing Mirage 2000 jets, Operation Sindoor was powered by India’s new Rafale fleet, armed with cutting-edge European weaponry.

The selection of SCALP and HAMMER reflects India’s intent: to strike specific terror assets with precision, avoiding civilian casualties and delivering a powerful message.