Operation Sindoor: Strategic Implications for China

Operation Sindoor marks a pivotal moment in South Asia’s national security apparatus, following a brutal terrorist attack in April 2025, in Pahalgam, claiming the lives of twenty six civilians. In response, India launched an appropriate and precise retaliatory strike on May 7, targeting nine key terror camps across Pakistan and PoK. The operation underscored a significant shift in India’s counter-terrorism strategy.

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This report offers a comprehensive analysis of China’s strategic implications in the wake of Operation Sindoor. China’s role, both overt and covert, is central to understanding the evolving regional dynamics and, at the same time, analysing its impact on India.

China’s growing involvement in information warfare and strategic narrative shaping has also been analysed, from Chinese media narratives downplaying Pakistan’s support for terrorism to instead questioning India’s actions. The report highlights China’s dual-track approach, supporting Pakistan both militarily and diplomatically, while maintaining a neutral stance in international organisations.

Operation Sindoor has not only challenged Pakistan’s conventional and proxy warfare tactics but has also sent a strong signal to China about India’s stance on terrorism and externally enabled terrorism.

STRATEGIC BACKGROUND: INDIA-PAKISTAN-CHINA

The three countries’ vis-à-vis India, Pakistan, and China come out to be complex and entangled. On one hand, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned the act of terrorism, and on the other hand, it provided Pakistan with fighter jets, J-10s and JF-17s. As per the strategic estimations, about 81% of the Pakistani army consists of Chinese-origin weaponry.

While Pakistan was unable to inflict any major military loss upon India, its campaign of misinformation created a false image which even lacked evidence. Recent reports of the Operation state that Beijing has provided Islamabad with satellite images and in reorganising its radar during 15 days around the 22nd of April.

The strategic shift in India’s response to terror-sponsored attacks signifies a major change. ‘Zero Tolerance’, as stated by PM Modi in his monthly ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio broadcast to the nation, set a clear and strong image of India, which is ready to retaliate and defend itself in the face of adversity and will itself finish the problem from the roots. 

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For all official and academic purposes, use the following as a citation, which follows the Chicago Manual Style.

Baishali, Bhumika Sevkani, and Isha Shree

“Operation Sindoor: Strategic Implications For China”

THE GEOSTRATA, August 12, 2025.

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