In a significant move during Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army chose innovation. General Upendra Dwivedi confirmed that foreign apps like WhatsApp were not utilized. Instead, the indigenous SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) phone was employed, boasting 5G technology and robust encryption. This is a historic stride towards the security of military communications and India's self-reliance.
What was Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor kicked off in May 2025 as a military response to a terrorist attack on April 22, 2025, in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 tourists at the hands of Pakistan-linked militants. In retaliation, on May 7, the Indian Army launched airstrikes on nine terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-Administered Kashmir (PoK), neutralizing over 100 terrorists.
Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi deemed it an all-nation effort involving soldiers, commanders, scientists, and policymakers. Termed a 'grey zone' operation, it was slightly less than full-scale war yet strategically potent. It marked the first use of an integrated command structure with the Army, Air Force, and Navy operating under a unified codename 'Sindoor'.
What is the SAMBHAV Phone?
SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) is an indigenous mobile communication system developed specifically for the Indian Army. Operating on 5G technology, it boasts multi-layer encryption to ensure security from espionage.
Featuring the M-Sigma app, similar to WhatsApp but entirely secure, it allows soldiers to share documents, photos, and videos without data leak fears. Initiated in January 2024, about 30,000 SAMBHAV phones have been supplied to army officers, functioning on Airtel and Jio networks, preloaded with crucial contacts to avoid manual entry.
Source: aajtak
SAMBHAV’s Role in Operation Sindoor
At the 52nd National Management Convention of AIMA in New Delhi on September 9, 2025, General Dwivedi highlighted SAMBHAV's role as pivotal in command and communication during Operation Sindoor, eliminating the use of WhatsApp or other foreign apps. The phone unified commanders on one platform, ensuring coordination and secrecy.
SAMBHAV’s strength lies in its immunity to network vulnerabilities, keeping the Army connected in warzones or peace talks. This was exemplified during the India-China border dialogues in October 2024, utilizing the SAMBHAV phone.
Why WhatsApp Was Abandoned
Previously, Indian Army officers used WhatsApp and other foreign apps, posing espionage and data leak risks. Defense authorities noted that regular mobile networks are vulnerable to hacking, jeopardizing sensitive information. SAMBHAV addresses this with full encryption, diminishing reliance on foreign apps.
General Dwivedi stated that SAMBHAV provided speedy, secure communication during Operation Sindoor, surprising the enemy and securing success. With the M-Sigma app replacing WhatsApp, documents and photos were shared securely.
Source: aajtak
Features of SAMBHAV
5G Technology: SAMBHAV phones operate on modern 5G networks, providing fast and reliable connectivity.
Multi-layer Encryption: It comes with several encryption levels, making espionage improbable.
M-Sigma App: A domestic app akin to WhatsApp, facilitating secure messaging, photo, and video sharing.
Network Agility: Seamlessly works across networks like Airtel and Jio without interruptions.
Indigenous Innovation: Developed by India’s top academic institutions and tech companies.
What Else Defined Operation Sindoor?
General Dwivedi likened Operation Sindoor to a game of chess, where the Army outmaneuvered its foes. He said the enemy's next move was unpredictable, yet strategy led to a checkmate. The operation saw the use of drones, long-range rockets, missiles, and loitering munitions, marking the first time the Army, Navy, and Air Force collaborated under a common operational name.
Three key factors contributed to the success of Operation Sindoor...
Political Clarity: Government granted full autonomy and clear directives to the military.
Integrated Planning: Unified efforts of the three services and other agencies.
Technology and Intelligence: Tools like SAMBHAV phones and drones ensured swift and secure communication.
A Victory for Self-Reliant India
The SAMBHAV phone is part of the self-reliant India initiative. General Dwivedi emphasized staying ahead with technology, declaring the goal of outmatching adversaries' technologies. SAMBHAV signifies a leap in this direction, securing military communications and promoting indigenous technology.
A defense official noted the SAMBHAV phone provided confidentiality and speed in Operation Sindoor. Its ongoing improvements ensure even greater strength in future conflicts. Usage extends beyond battles to diplomatic events like India-China border talks.
