Backdrop: Operation Sindoor
In early May 2025, India launched Operation Sindoor in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam. The high-precision offensive targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and PoK, neutralizing over 100 militants within a brief 23-hour window. Pakistan closed its airspace and retaliated, marking one of the most serious clashes between the nuclear-armed neighbors in years.
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| IAF claimed six Pakistani aircraft were shot down |
Indian Account
On August 9, 2025, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh publicly confirmed that the IAF had shot down five Pakistani fighter jets and one larger surveillance or electronic intelligence aircraft. Most of the aircraft were downed using India’s S-400 surface-to-air missile system, with the largest kill recorded at a record distance of 300 km—marking it as India’s largest recorded surface-to-air kill to date. Singh also revealed strikes damaged Pakistani airbases and radar systems.
Pakistan’s Response
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif swiftly dismissed the Indian claims as “implausible” and “ill-timed,” stating that no Pakistani aircraft were hit or destroyed. In a public statement on X, he challenged India to open both countries’ aircraft inventories for independent verification. Pakistan reiterated that it had instead downed six Indian aircraft, including Rafales, and damaged Indian airbases and systems.
Earlier in the conflict, Pakistan shared technical briefings and media statements asserting Indian losses, although India acknowledged only some aircraft were lost and downplayed the extent.
What Happened in Operation Sindoor?
| Aspect | Indian Narrative | Pakistani Narrative |
|---|---|---|
| Aircraft Downed | 5 fighter jets + 1 large aircraft | None |
| Missile System Used | S-400 SAM with 300 km kill range | Denied any hits |
| Additional Claims | Radar and airbase infrastructure severely damaged | Claimed IAF losses and retaliation capabilities |
Verification Status | Based on IAF intelligence, satellite and EW data | Denied access and offered independent verification |
FAQ's
Q1: How many aircraft did India claim to have shot down?
The IAF chief claimed six Pakistani aircraft were shot down—five fighter jets and one large surveillance plane.
Q2: What did Pakistan say?
Pakistan’s Defence Minister called India’s claims “implausible,” asserting that no aircraft were hit and invited independent verification.
Q3: How significant was the 300 km S-400 kill?
It would be India’s longest surface-to-air missile kill ever—prestigious if verified through independent data.
Q4: Are these claims independently verified?
No. Both sides have presented their narratives, but no neutral party has confirmed the details publicly.
Q5: What was Operation Sindoor aimed at?
India says it targeted terrorist infrastructure, including camps and installations, in response to the Pahalgam attack. Pakistan reported civilian areas hit and counterclaimed significant Indian losses.
