Indian Deputy Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Rahul R. Singh, on Friday claimed that China used the four-day conflict between India and Pakistan in May as a testing ground for its weapons systems. He claimed that China supported Pakistan extensively, in line with its traditional military tactic of harming enemies using a “borrowed knife.” According to Singh, while Pakistan appeared as the main adversary, both China and Turkiye were deeply involved, China by providing military support and intelligence, and Turkiye by supplying hardware, essentially making India face three fronts during the May 7–10 confrontation.
Speaking at a seminar on “New Age Military Technologies” organized by FICCI, Singh suggested that China’s satellite network was likely used to monitor Indian troop movements, with Pakistan receiving live data through DGMO-level communications. He linked this to China’s ancient military philosophy, arguing that Beijing backed Islamabad in order to inflict damage on India without direct involvement.
Lt Gen Singh, who oversees the Indian Army’s capability development, emphasized that China’s support wasn’t unexpected given that 81% of Pakistan’s military hardware in the last five years came from China. He reiterated that Beijing preferred indirect engagement through proxies like Pakistan instead of open confrontation along their northern border.
He also accused Turkiye of aiding Pakistan militarily, stating that Turkish drones and personnel were observed during the conflict, indicating broader foreign involvement.
Singh highlighted that the episode offered key takeaways for India’s defense strategy, particularly the importance of strengthening C4ISR systems (command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) and enhancing civil-military integration. He stressed that China’s real-time intelligence sharing with Pakistan, especially during DGMO-level calls, revealed major vulnerabilities that India must quickly address.
He stated that India’s political and military messaging during the conflict was clear and firm, signaling a shift from past responses. He shared that target selection for strikes in Pakistan and Azad Kashmir was informed by detailed intelligence, both technological and human.
During Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 people, India identified 21 targets, of which nine were engaged. The clashes, which began on May 7, lasted four days and concluded with an agreement to end hostilities on May 10.
Singh also confirmed that India had turned to the United States to help arrange a ceasefire. He noted that while President Trump openly acknowledged his role, Indian Prime Minister Modi did not challenge the claim publicly.
Addressing the future of military readiness, Singh emphasized the growing demand for drones in the Indian Armed Forces. He said a comprehensive drone framework was in progress, expected to be finalized by September or October, with a focus on incentivizing production, addressing vulnerabilities, and improving testing mechanisms.
Reflecting on Operation Sindoor, Singh called on the Indian defense industry to increase investment in research and development. He stressed the importance of achieving “atmanirbharta” (self-reliance) in defense, warning against reliance on external sources for critical technologies.
Concluding his remarks, Singh asserted that India must prepare for all five generations of warfare by adopting new technologies and staying future-ready. He urged the defense sector to cooperate, collaborate, and compete, while avoiding a culture of complaints. He emphasized that modern warfare would require combined efforts from both soldiers and industry partners to ensure national security.
