"IAF Chief confirms participation in Operation Sindoor, a military operation against Pakistan"
The Indian military offensive, Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025, marked a significant milestone in modern air warfare. Targeting terrorist infrastructure and military assets across Pakistani-administered Azad Kashmir and Pakistan's Punjab province, the operation involved coordinated missile and air strikes by the Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF).
During the operation, the IAF achieved a historic feat by shooting down five Pakistani fighter jets and a large airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) or electronic intelligence (ELINT) aircraft at an unprecedented distance of about 300 km. This engagement marks possibly the longest recorded surface-to-air kill in modern air warfare history.
Air warfare was identified as the first responder during Operation Sindoor, capable of reacting quickly, attacking deep inside with precision, and achieving objectives without collateral damage. The IAF's arsenal included precision long-range munitions and advanced fighter jets like Rafale equipped with SCALP missiles and AASM Hammer bombs.
The IAF's success was partly attributed to India’s recently acquired S-400 air defense system, which prevented Pakistani aircraft from effectively employing their long-range glide bombs. The operation also targeted key Pakistani military installations, including command and control centers and radars at airfields like Shahbaz Jacobabad, significantly damaging Pakistani strategic assets.
Indian Air Force Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh disclosed these details publicly during an August 2025 lecture, emphasising the role of the S-400 system as a game-changer. The operation also resulted in official recognition of personnel involved, with nine IAF fighter pilots being awarded the Vir Chakra, India's third-highest gallantry award.
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval played a crucial role in bringing different agencies and forces together during Operation Sindoor. The operation reflected a calibrated response aimed at degrading terror infrastructure while minimising collateral damage.
However, the operation was not without its challenges. Some of the missiles from the unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones fell within Indian territory. In addition, the IAF struck the UAV hangar and the radar site at the Sukkur airbase during the operation.
In summary, Operation Sindoor was a decisive Indian military action primarily using air power and precision strikes to target terrorist and military facilities in Pakistan, featuring historic long-range aerial kills aided by advanced air defense systems, and resulting in official recognition of personnel involved. The operation underscores the primacy of air warfare in modern conflict and India's commitment to maintaining national security.
- Despite the Indian military's success in Operation Sindoor, some of the missiles from the unmanned aerial vehicles and drones fell within Indian territory, causing concern in the realm of general news.
- Beyond the realm of cricket, where India has consistently excelled, Operation Sindoor also saw Indian Air Force pilots achieving a historic feat by shooting down Pakistani fighter jets at an unprecedented distance, showcasing India's prowess in sports and politics, particularly in the field of air warfare technology.
