ANKARA

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday warned that New Delhi would launch a BrahMos missile strike against Pakistan if Islamabad carries out another “misdeed,” as tensions simmer following recent cross-border clashes.

Speaking at a rally in his hometown Varanasi, in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh, Modi praised the country’s growing defense capabilities and referenced the success of “Operation Sindoor.”

“During Operation Sindoor, the world witnessed the power of India’s indigenous weaponry and the effectiveness of India’s air defense systems, indigenous missiles, and drones, which demonstrated the strength of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India),” Modi said, according to a statement from India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The operation refers to a brief military escalation between India and Pakistan in May.

In response to Indian strikes, Islamabad launched “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos” and claimed it shot down six Indian jets and destroyed several military positions.

Modi emphasized the psychological and strategic impact of the BrahMos missile, saying it has instilled fear in India’s enemies.

He announced that the missile will soon be manufactured in Lucknow, noting that weapons produced in Uttar Pradesh will become a vital part of India’s military strength.

He warned that missiles made in the state would be used to “destroy terrorists” if Pakistan commits another hostile act.

There was no immediate response from Pakistani authorities.

The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, capable of being launched from submarines, ships, aircraft or land platforms, is a joint venture between India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyeniya. The program began in 1998.

New Delhi had blamed Islamabad for a deadly attack at the Pahalgam tourist resort, which killed 26 people. Pakistan denied the allegation and called for an impartial international investigation.

India launched airstrikes across the border, prompting retaliatory attacks from Pakistan. After four days of escalation, US President Donald Trump announced a ceasefire between the two nuclear-armed neighbors on May 10, which remains in effect.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid